Commuters and parents are facing renewed financial pressure as transport providers announced fare increases following the latest fuel price hike.

The National Joint Three-Wheeler Drivers’ Union and Industry Association said the rising fuel costs had made it difficult for drivers to continue operating at existing rates.

Secretary of the association Rohana Perera said the industry had been compelled to revise fares in order to remain viable.

Accordingly, the three-wheeler fare for the first kilometre is expected to increase by Rs. 10, raising the starting charge from Rs. 100 to Rs. 110.

Meanwhile, the All Island School Children Transport Association also indicated that school van charges would be increased in response to the higher fuel prices.

The move is expected to place additional strain on parents, many of whom have not seen corresponding increases in their incomes.

The timing is particularly difficult as the April school holidays approach. Under prevailing industry practices, parents are often required to pay the full monthly transport fee during the holiday period even when children do not use the service.

Some transport providers said they were reluctant to increase fees given the financial difficulties faced by families, but noted that the rising cost of fuel had left them with limited options.