Financial Tribune - Since the government rationed and raised the price of gasoline on Nov. 15, the public transportation fleet in Tehran has served 20% more passengers, Tehran City Council Chairman Mohsen Hashemi said.

Hashemi also told ISNA that the recent fuel price jump has compelled a large number of commuters to opt for taxi, bus or subway for their daily trips.

Based on the new regulations, private car owners can buy 60 liters of subsidized gasoline every month with a fuel card for 15,000 rials (12.5 cents) per liter, up 50%. Additional purchases (maximum 250 liters a month) will cost 30,000 rials (25 cents) per liter, up 200%.

"The number of passengers of public transportation has seen a 15-20% rise in the capital city during the past week. This is while the transport system does not have sufficient capacity to handle the influx," he added.