Students from Talas studying at capital universities note that this year transportation prices have significantly increased. For instance, travel in 7-seater vehicles costs 1800 soms, while in 4-seater vehicles it can go up to 2000 soms. "Now you can buy a plane ticket for 2500 soms. The price increase during the holiday period creates financial difficulties for students," they share.
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At the end of December 2023 and 2024, Turmush already reported on the rise in travel prices. Locals say that many return from Bishkek, where they study and work, before the New Year holidays. Passengers who arrived from the capital on December 30 claim that the boarding cost has increased from 1300 to 1500 soms per person.
According to information from the Traffic Safety Department of the Talas region's Internal Affairs Directorate, inspectors are conducting explanatory work with drivers; however, they cannot intervene in tariff regulation. This is the responsibility of the Antimonopoly Regulation Service under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce.
Every year with the onset of cold weather, there is an increase in travel costs on the Bishkek—Talas—Bishkek route. For example, in November 2022, Turmush reported that the price for travel on the Talas—Bishkek route had risen to 1200 soms per person.
At that time, drivers explained this increase by changes in weather conditions, indicating that the cost had risen from 800 to 1200 soms due to road hazards. "Before the trip, we check the vehicle, change the tires to winter ones to avoid getting stuck. These measures require additional expenses. Moreover, fuel and lubricants have also become more expensive, which has affected travel prices. In a 7-seater vehicle, the trip costs 1000 soms, while in a 4-seater it costs 1200 soms," they explained.
