Claims about an alleged increase in transportation fares made by the Ghana Private Road and Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have been denied by the Ministry of Transport.
On Wednesday, January 17, the Ministry made the following clear in a statement: “There has not been any negotiation with the transport operators for a review of the transport fares. We therefore urge the general public to disregard the purported increase.”
The Ministry gave the public the assurance that, as has always been the case, any developments in the negotiations that resulted in fare adjustments would be disclosed in an open and transparent manner.
This is in response to a press release issued by the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, which stated that their proposed fare increase was motivated by a significant increase in the cost of lubricants, spare parts, and DVLA service charges.
The operators contended that these elements were having a major effect on the members’ means of subsistence.
The Commercial Transport Operators stated that the proposed fare increase aims to address the financial challenges faced by drivers and ensure the sustainability of the public transportation industry in Ghana. They expressed their concerns about the high cost of maintenance and repairs.
The GPRTU stated in a different press release that, at the national management meeting on January 16, 2024, it was decided to raise transport fares by 20% at all of the union’s loading points. January 24, 2024 is the suggested date of implementation for this fare adjustment.
Commuters are confused and apprehensive about possible fare hikes due to the contradictory statements made by the Ministry of Transportation and the transport operators.
In the meantime, a stakeholder meeting has been invited by the ministry to the transport operators for a negotiation.
