Families and businesses are continuing to feel the impact of the rise in fuel price that was implemented at the beginning of the month, with concerns growing over rising costs and financial pressure.
Seaqaqa businessman Mohammed Aruf Khan told fijivillage News that the increase came as a shock, especially after earlier assurances that prices would remain stable for a few months.
Khan says the sudden increase has placed a heavy burden on those working in agriculture, as well as families already struggling with daily expenses such as transport and education costs.
HINDI INSERT: Khan on burden 19th Apr
Khan adds that many people feel they have been misled and continue to question the timing of the increase.
Meanwhile, Labasa resident Lavenia Veikoso says the rise is significantly higher than previous increases and is affecting her family’s monthly budget.
She says families are now being forced to cut back on planned spending to cope with higher fuel costs.
She adds that transport is a major concern, especially for parents whose children rely on private transport to get to school.
INSERT: Lavenia on transportation cost 19th Apr
Veikoso says families are struggling to cope with rising living costs.
