The Ministry of Transport in Ghana has issued a stern directive to the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to closely monitor commercial drivers who defy regulations by imposing unauthorized transport fares. This action comes amidst ongoing negotiations for fare adjustments and a surge in fuel prices and related operational costs.
In a press release issued on Sunday, the Ministry’s Public Relations Unit emphasized the necessity for drivers to adhere to the current public transport fares as stipulated by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of TUC and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC). The statement warned of legal repercussions for any driver found contravening these directives.
Reports of unauthorized fare hikes by certain commercial drivers have prompted this directive, despite ongoing negotiations between transport unions and the Ministry. Last Thursday, April 11, 2024, the GPRTU of TUC and the GRTCC jointly urged commuters not to pay any additional fares outside the existing rates, condemning such increases as illegal. They emphasized their commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue with the Ministry.
Earlier, on Monday, April 8, 2024, two transport operating groups, the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana (C-DAG) and the Transport Operators of Ghana, unilaterally announced a 15% increase in transport fares, effective April 13, 2024. Citing escalating fuel prices, government inaction on fuel cost reductions, and rising expenses on vehicle maintenance, the groups justified their decision.
However, the GPRTU and GRTCC assured ongoing engagement with stakeholders to assess various cost components and reach a consensus on fare adjustments. “Once consensus is reached, the general public will be duly informed,” they stated.
The Ministry’s directive aims to uphold fairness and stability in the public transport system while urging adherence to existing fare structures until formal agreements are reached through mutual consensus. As negotiations continue, the Ministry seeks to protect commuters from undue financial burdens and ensure a transparent and equitable resolution to the ongoing fare adjustment discussions.
Below is the Ministry of Transport’s statement:
