High fuel prices in Alberta forcing reduction in inter-city bus service, increase in ticket prices
Global News
As gas prices remain high, Alberta transportation businesses that heavily rely on the use of fuel are starting to feel the financial pinch.
As gas prices hovering in record territory, Alberta transportation businesses that heavily rely on the use of fuel are starting to feel the financial pinch.
It’s been a tough two years for the Alberta-based bus company, Cold Shot Bus Service.
The pandemic led to low ridership, but now, as business begins to pick up, recent high gas prices are throwing another wrench into its profitability.
“The price is just killing us. It’s too high to maintain the same pricing and scheduling,” Cold Shot Bus Service president Sunny Balwaria said.
Since the recent gas spike kicked in, Balwaria said costs are up 30 per cent, added costs that he’s had to absorb.
It’s a situation the business can no longer keep up with.
“Currently, what we are thinking of is increasing the price by five dollars, if the current price (of gas) stays, just to keep things running and maintaining it,” Balwaria said.
Balwaria said if gas prices remain high, the price hike would kick in April 1st and will stay in place until prices go down.