Transport Operators Suspend 30% Fare Increase After Government Appeal

Road transport operators have suspended their planned 30% increase in transport fares while awaiting the outcome of the next fuel pricing review expected on Friday.

The operators had earlier announced plans to adjust fares due to rising fuel prices and increasing operational costs, but have temporarily halted the move following an appeal from the government.

Government has indicated that it is working on measures aimed at reducing the cost of petroleum products.

Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, said the decision to suspend the fare hike followed discussions between transport union leaders and government representatives.

“Yesterday, my leadership informed us that when they met, government asked us to hold on because they are working on measures to ensure fuel prices come down,” he said.

Mr Amoah, however, warned that the union’s assessment suggests fuel prices could rise again during the next pricing window.

He said the union will wait until Friday to observe developments at the fuel pumps before deciding on the next step regarding the proposed fare adjustment.

According to him, the current fuel prices continue to put pressure on commercial drivers, with diesel selling at about GH¢17.78 per litre and petrol retailing at approximately GH¢14.95 per litre.

He explained that rising fuel costs have reduced drivers’ earnings and made it difficult for some operators to continue running certain routes profitably.

“There are areas that drivers don’t even want to ply because when they go and return, they make no meaningful income. That is the challenge we are facing now,” he said.

The GPRTU says it will reassess the situation after the upcoming fuel price review before deciding whether to proceed with the proposed 30% transport fare increase.