Burgasbus seeks fare increase

The municipal carrier "Burgasbus" requested an increase in the price of a city ticket by six cents from the beginning of 2026.

In a submitted report to the Burgas Municipal Council, the company"s manager, Petko Dragnev, proposes that the price of a single ticket, purchased on board the bus in cash or by card, reach 0.80 euros with VAT, equivalent to 1.56 leva.

It is important to note that this increase only affects this type of ticket. All other types of transport documents, including electronic cards, tickets from machines and subscriptions for entitled groups, will retain their current prices.

Explanation for the requested increase

The explanation for the requested increase is justified by a number of serious economic factors.

"Burgasbus" highlights the significant increase in energy and labor costs, the need for depreciation of the bus fleet, as well as the upcoming introduction of a new payment system with bank cards in the context of the eurozone.

This requires significant investment and adaptation to the new requirements.

Despite measures taken to optimize costs, including investments in energy efficiency and strict control of spending, the company has not been able to fully compensate for the negative economic impact of inflation and increased costs.

The report clearly states that this is the first proposed increase in the ticket price since 2017. During this period, according to NSI data, inflation has exceeded 50%, which inevitably led to a significant increase in the operating costs of "Burgasbus".

This significant inflation has led to an increase in the prices of fuels, spare parts, and staff salaries, creating the need for a correction of the ticket price to ensure the stability and functioning of public transport.

The decision of the Municipal Council

The proposal of "Burgasbus" for an increase in the ticket price is crucial for the financial stability of the company and for ensuring quality public transport for the residents of Burgas.

It is now expected to be considered and discussed by the Municipal Council, which will make the final decision on this matter.

The decision is expected to be made with attention to the financial sustainability of "Burgasbus_q_ and the needs of the citizens.

It remains to be seen how events will unfold and how the Municipal Council will pronounce on this important issue, directly affecting hundreds of thousands of residents of the city.