Omanghana
Commercial drivers across Ghana have been cautioned against imposing unauthorized transport fare increases following complaints from passengers in Accra and other parts of the country.
Transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), recently held discussions with the Ministry of Transport over calls for a fare adjustment amid rising fuel prices and operating expenses.
As part of measures to ease the financial pressure on transport operators, the government agreed to absorb GH¢2 per liter of diesel. Following the intervention, transport unions suspended their proposed fare increase until the end of August 2026 to assess how fuel prices would stabilize.
Despite the agreement, some passengers have reported that certain commercial drivers have independently increased their fares without approval from the relevant authorities and transport unions.
GPRTU Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah has consequently directed drivers to return immediately to the previously approved fares. He stressed that the official consultation and approval process required for any fare adjustment had not been completed.
The Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana has also warned that drivers who continue to charge unapproved fares could face legal action.
Passengers have been encouraged to report unionized drivers who demand unauthorized fares to officers at their respective transport stations. Drivers operating outside recognized unions, commonly referred to as “floating drivers,” may be reported to the nearest police officer for intervention.
Although transport operators acknowledge that the GH¢2-per-litre diesel relief may not fully address the rising cost of spare parts, maintenance and other operational expenses, union leaders insist that individual drivers cannot unilaterally alter fares.
They have urged all commercial drivers to comply with the existing fare structure until negotiations are concluded and an official adjustment is announced.
Source: Omanghana
