In what could spell further financial strain for commuters across Ghana, driver unions are poised to implement a significant hike in transport fares, defying government calls for restraint. The Ministry of Transport braces itself for a showdown with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) today, as tensions escalate over proposed fare adjustments.
Amidst mounting economic pressures and a perceived lack of government intervention, two prominent driver unions, the Concerned Drivers Association and the Transport Operators of Ghana, have announced their intention to raise transport fares effective Saturday, April 13. Speaking to Accra-based Citi FM, Mr. Agboado, Public Relations Officer for the Concerned Drivers Association, affirmed their steadfast stance on a 20% fare increment.
“We are meeting with the ministry but it won’t change anything. We will still take the 20%,” Mr. Agboado asserted. “This time around, whether the minister says anything or he plays the gimmicks that he keeps playing, the transport fare will be increased.”
The decision to push for fare hikes comes against a backdrop of perceived governmental apathy towards addressing key cost drivers for transport operators, including petrol prices, vehicle spare parts, and lubricants. The unions have lamented the worsening economic conditions and the strain it places on both drivers and commuters.
“We have accepted it in good faith and we will take the 20%, whether GPRTU meets with the ministry, we don’t have a problem with it,” Mr. Agboado emphasized.
The proposed fare adjustments outline a 20% increase for intercity or long-distance journeys, a 15% hike for taxi services, and a raise from GH¢10.00 to GH¢15.00 for short-distance taxi hires. The unions have urged Ghanaians to brace themselves for the increment and to cooperate with transport operators.
“Just as it may have been noted by most Ghanaians, the government appears to be indifferent regarding any reduction in the price of petrol as well as those of vehicle spare parts and lubricants,” the unions stated. “Also, the prevailing economic difficulties and other factors are worsening the living conditions of transport owners and drivers.”
As the Ministry of Transport prepares to engage with the GPRTU, the looming fare hike threatens to deepen the financial burden on already-strained households and businesses. With commuters eagerly awaiting the outcome of today’s meeting, the fate of transportation costs hangs in the balance, poised to impact the daily lives of millions across the nation.