The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has taken a resolute stance against proposed transport fare increases until specific conditions are met, amid escalating fuel prices.
This decision comes in response to declarations by two prominent transport unions, the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana and the Transport Operators of Ghana, who announced a rise in fares effective April 13, 2024, citing the surge in petroleum product prices as justification.
Emmanuel Ohene Yeboah, the General Secretary of the GRTCC, labeled the proposed fare increases as illegal, highlighting the unions’ failure to comply with fare reduction directives in 2022 despite significant drops in fuel prices. Yeboah emphasized that any fare hikes cannot be sanctioned until fuel prices surpass levels recorded during the last approved increase.
Speaking on the council’s approach, Yeboah elucidated that discussions for fare adjustments are initiated when fuel prices either increase or decrease by 10% from the previous adjustment. He underscored that recent fuel price hikes have not significantly impacted operational costs but rather aim to maintain unjustified profit margins.
Referring to previous instances of fuel price drops, Yeboah revealed that the council urged members to reduce fares by 10% to pass on benefits to passengers. However, compliance from drivers was lacking, indicating that current fare hikes primarily preserve illicit gains.
Yeboah asserted that until fuel prices exceed 23 Ghanaian cedis per litre, no approval for fare increases will be granted, in accordance with established regulations and protocols. He emphasized the council’s commitment to fair pricing and sustainable transport operations.
Meanwhile, the GRTCC has supported the Transport Ministry’s call for the arrest of drivers implementing unauthorized fare hikes, underscoring the seriousness with which regulatory bodies are approaching the issue.
As passengers and drivers await further developments, the spotlight remains on the delicate balance between fair pricing and sustainable transport operations in Ghana. The GRTCC’s firm stance reflects a commitment to uphold regulatory standards and protect the interests of both passengers and transport operators amidst challenging economic conditions.