By Ko Myo / MPA
YANGON, Myanmar — Intercity bus fares in Myanmar have more than doubled in recent weeks, leading to a sharp decline in travel as a worsening fuel crisis grips the nation.
At Yangon’s Aung Mingala Highway Bus Terminal, brokers and operators report that ticket prices continue to climb in tandem with the unregulated surge in diesel and gasoline costs.
A one-way ticket from Yangon to Mandalay has now reached 50,000 Kyats—a historic high—with further increases expected as fuel prices show no signs of stabilizing.
“The Yangon-Mandalay fare has already hit 50,000 Kyats, but with diesel prices now exceeding 4,800 Kyats per liter in Yangon, we expect fares to rise again very soon,” a broker at the terminal told MPA.
The spike in costs has effectively deterred all but the most essential travel. “Every passenger complains about the prices. Only those with urgent business or emergencies are choosing the bus now because it’s faster. Those who aren’t in a rush are switching to the railway. Between the high costs and the difficult road conditions, people simply aren’t traveling unless they absolutely have to,” the broker added.
The energy shortage is triggering a broader inflationary effect across the economy. Beyond transport, the cost of basic food commodities and automotive spare parts has also surged, placing an immense burden on a population already struggling with economic instability.
As of March 21, official reference prices in Yangon were quoted at 3,610 Kyats per liter for 92 Ron, 3,850 Kyats for 95 Ron, 4,390 Kyats for Diesel, and 4,820 Kyats for Premium Diesel.
However, market sources indicate that actual street prices—where fuel is often more readily available than at subsidized stations—are significantly higher.
The transport deadlock serves as a stark indicator of the deepening logistical challenges facing Myanmar, as the military-led administration struggles to manage the country’s energy security and currency devaluation.
Editor: ML
