By Christian Appleton
Maryland County, Liberia — Public frustration is mounting over the Liberia National Transit Authority’s (NTA) steep and sudden fare hikes on the Monrovia–Maryland route. Commuters are accusing the state-run agency of straying from its core mission of providing affordable transportation to Liberians.
Since the route’s inauguration, the NTA has raised fares three times: from an initial LRD 3,500, to LRD 4,500, and now to LRD 5,500. This latest increase has drawn sharp criticism from commuters who say the cost is now nearly indistinguishable from private taxis, which charge between LRD 6,000 and LRD 6,500.
“LRD 5,500 is a slap in the face to ordinary people,” said Adam Tugbe, a motorist from Pleebo. “It costs almost the same as the private taxis. We welcomed the NTA at LRD 3,500, thinking it would be a public service, not a money grab.”
Many commuters say the hike not only burdens their already stretched household budgets but also undermines President Joseph Boakai’s promise of reliable and affordable public services.
“Waiting for NTA buses is already a time drain,” said Rachel Nagbe, a daily traveler from Harper District. “Now we’re paying more than ever for buses that run half-empty. I’d rather pay LRD 5,000 to a taxi and save my sanity.”
Critics argue that the NTA’s inconsistent fare adjustments highlight a lack of planning and transparency within the agency. With private operators maintaining fares between LRD 6,500 and LRD 7,000, commuters feel squeezed between unreliable government service and pricier private alternatives, all against the backdrop of rising costs for basic goods.
Civil society groups and local residents are now urging the Ministry of Transport to step in and regulate the fare structure. They are calling for a transparent, sustainable pricing model that reflects the economic realities of Liberia’s working class.
“If the NTA cannot stabilize its rates, then what’s the point of a national transit authority?” one concerned resident asked.
As the cost of living continues to climb, many fear that if no action is taken, the NTA could lose public trust and its relevance as a vital public service.