Transport fares unchanged as GPRTU moves against driver overcharging

Transport fares in Ghana have not been increased, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union has said, following complaints that some commercial drivers are charging passengers above the approved rates.

The GPRTU said it had agreed with the government to maintain existing fares until an ongoing assessment determines whether an adjustment is necessary.

Its Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah, said the union was taking steps to ensure that affiliated drivers comply with the directive.

“We have had an agreement with the government that fares are not going to be increased for now, pending the survey that the team comprising the GPRTU, the GRTCC and the Transport Ministry wants to do before we come to a conclusion,” he said on TV3.

The assessment is being undertaken by a team comprising the GPRTU, the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council and the Ministry of Transport.

Mr Amoah said no decision would be taken until the survey had been completed and the relevant stakeholders had agreed on whether fares should change and by what percentage.

His comments follow reports from commuters that some drivers have already begun demanding higher fares despite the absence of an officially announced adjustment.

“We are still receiving complaints that some of the drivers are charging unapproved fares and all that,” Mr Amoah said.

“We are working on it, making sure that those that belong to our union, we are putting in strict measures for them not to go ahead and increase transport fares.”

The GPRTU did not specify the routes on which the alleged overcharging had been reported or disclose the measures being taken against drivers who fail to comply.

It also did not provide a timetable for completing the survey or indicate the factors being considered in determining whether a fare increase is necessary.

Transport fares directly affect the daily expenses of millions of Ghanaians who rely on commercial vehicles, commonly known as trotros, and taxis to travel to work, school and markets.

Any increase can also have broader consequences because transport costs influence the prices traders and businesses charge for moving goods and providing services.

For now, passengers are expected to continue paying the existing approved fares.

“Basically, fares have not been increased and we are making sure that all drivers will comply with this directive until, if we have to increase, we all agree on a certain percentage,” Mr Amoah said.

A possible adjustment will therefore depend on the outcome of the assessment and an agreement among the GPRTU, the GRTCC and the Ministry of Transport.