The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has affirmed its intention to implement a 60% increase in transportation prices starting in January 2024. This decision aligns with the recently passed Emission Levy Bill, which mandates owners of engines other than diesel to pay an annual levy of 100 cedis, effective from January 2024.
The Emission Levy Bill aims to promote the use of environmentally friendly energy sources for vehicle power, in line with the government’s commitment to carbon offset programs and climate-positive initiatives.
In response to the increased tax burden, the GPRTU has submitted a petition to the Speaker of Parliament, urging a reconsideration of the Emission Levy Bill. Abbas Imoro, the GPRTU Public Relations Officer, expressed concerns about the union’s current financial challenges in an interview with Citi News.
Imoro stated, “We are already paying for the emission, 10 pesewas for a litre. So you can imagine 10 pesewas by 4.5 for a gallon by several gallons you use a day times 26 working days in a month. You can imagine how much one driver pays for it. And we pleaded with parliament that they should have a second look at it.”
He further indicated that if no action is taken or no resolution is reached, the GPRTU would proceed with an upward adjustment of lorry fares, anticipating an increase of not less than 60%.now
Source:Omanghana.com