With the continued rise in fuel prices in GTA, public transit agencies say they have started to see an increase in the number of riders from residents trying to cut their living costs.

The average price per liter of fuel has risen by more than 16 percent over the past week and now stands at a record high of $1.84.9 with little relief in sight.

In fact, many analysts expect the cost per liter of fuel to exceed $2 USD each in the coming weeks, as oil heads towards $150 USD per barrel.

Amid rising costs, passengers are increasingly turning to public transit as an affordable mode of transportation.

Officials at TTC and Metrolinx also reported seeing an increase in the number of riders in recent days, although it is unclear how much of this increase is attributed to rising fuel prices, or is simply a result of more people returning to work.

Metrolinx spokesperson Ann Marie Aikins said on Tuesday morning: "We've noticed a difference." "We have started hearing from customers saying 'Well, gas prices are very high for me, I will choose public transit, it has become a very affordable travel method and that is one of the reasons why people no longer choose private transportation.'"

Aikins said the number of riders along the GO Transit network has increased in recent weeks as the province lifted many public health restrictions but is still only at 26 percent of pre-pandemic levels.

TTC expects an increase in ridership in the coming days due to rising fuel prices.

The rising fuel cost is already affecting commuting expenses as some drivers said they are paying up to an additional $100 each week.

TTC spokesperson Stewart Green said, "While it is difficult to conduct any targeted analysis given the recent ongoing reopening of the country, some previous research has suggested that for every 10 percent increase in the price of gas there is a one to one-and-a-half percent increase in public transit ridership."

Green added: "I think we could see more people using transit." "Unfortunately, due to the effects of the waves of the pandemic, it is somewhat difficult to quantify, but we expect to see more people using these means. It has always been a good option and I think people will now understand why."