Residents In Katsina Embrace Ox-Drawn Carts As Fuel Subsidy Removal Takes Toll On Transportation Costs

Residents In Katsina Embrace Ox-Drawn Carts As Fuel Subsidy Removal Takes Toll On Transportation Costs

In the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, residents of Daura in Katsina State are making a notable shift towards alternative transportation methods, with an increasing reliance on ox-drawn carts for moving goods….CONTINUE READING

A recent visit to the local park revealed a growing number of residents opting for these traditional carts as a response to the elevated costs associated with conventional transportation after the subsidy removal.

Individuals turning to ox-drawn carts cited the exorbitant expenses linked to regular means of transportation as the primary driver of this shift. Some cart operators noted a surge in activity, especially from the town’s low-income earners who find this mode of transportation more affordable in the face of soaring fuel prices.

Malam Kabir Adamu, a cart operator, explained that the choice to embrace ox-drawn carts was driven by the need to mitigate costs and alleviate financial pressures. With conventional transportation expenses witnessing a threefold increase, affordability became a critical factor in selecting alternative means.

“I decided to abandon the conventional means of transportation because I can’t afford it; the cost is triple what we usually pay. Therefore, we must choose an alternative way of moving our goods from one place to another, which we can afford to pay. We are now struggling for what to eat because prices of goods are no longer affordable like before,” said Malam Kabir Adamu.

Malam Muhammad Sani, another ox-drawn cart rider, highlighted that while this mode of transportation has existed for about 50 years, the recent surge in patronage is unprecedented. Many low-income earners now prefer ox-drawn carts due to the prohibitive costs associated with conventional vehicles, leading to increased business for cart operators.

“Many people, especially the low-income earners, no longer use vehicles to convey their goods due to the high cost, except when taking such goods far away from town. Because of this, they are now patronizing us, and business is now bringing in more money,” revealed Malam Muhammad Sani.

Despite the state government’s efforts to provide more affordable transportation options, residents continue to face challenges in conveying their goods. The trend towards ox-drawn carts underscores the resilience of the community in adapting to economic changes and finding practical solutions to cope with increased living expenses.