Urban and interurban public transport associations in Albania have warned that they will reduce the number of vehicles in operation by 20% to 30% starting September 1, citing rising fuel costs and mounting financial pressure on transport operators.

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Municipality of Tirana and the relevant ministries, the National Urban Transport Association and the Urban and Interurban Transport Association said the financial situation of operators has deteriorated significantly, largely due to higher fuel expenses and the failure to provide the compensation they have requested.

The associations said the lack of financial support has made it increasingly difficult for operators to maintain services at full capacity.

The planned reduction is expected to result in less frequent bus services, longer intervals between routes and increased difficulties for passengers, particularly in areas dependent on public transportation.

Transport operators stressed that the measure is not voluntary, but rather a consequence of their current financial situation. They are calling on government institutions to take urgent action to ensure the requested compensation and maintain support for fuel-related costs.

The operators said they would make every effort to maintain continuity of public transport services, but warned that operating 100% of their fleets is no longer financially sustainable under current conditions.