Transport Sector Presses for Fare Increase Amid Fuel Price Surge

The recent spike in fuel prices has triggered calls from commercial drivers in Accra for a 10% hike in transport fares.

They cite escalating operational costs and diminishing profit margins.

Drivers, particularly from the Adabraka Cooperative Society station, are urging leaders of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other unions to announce fare adjustments to offset the impact of rising fuel costs on their livelihoods.

Kwabena Kakraba, a taxi driver, expressed the challenges drivers face: “Sometimes we go home with bare hands because you cannot say you are not buying fuel.” He emphasized the necessity for fare increases to maintain sustainable operations amidst soaring spare parts costs and other operational essentials.

“At Tesano, some taxi drivers have already adjusted fares from GH₵10 to GH₵15 for short distances,” noted Kwaku Abban Abaidoo, highlighting the immediate financial strain caused by fuel price hikes and other rising expenses.

Commuters have voiced concerns over the potential fare hikes, urging authorities to address the implications of fuel price increases on citizens’ daily expenses.

The Concerned Drivers Union is set to deliberate on these issues starting July 8, aiming to formulate a response to the challenges posed by recent fuel price adjustments. In the first pricing window of July, petrol was priced at GH₵14.80 per litre, while diesel cost GH₵14.92 at leading oil marketing companies, including Shell and Goil.

The debate over transport fares underscores ongoing economic pressures within Ghana’s transport sector, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions amid volatile fuel prices.

Source:newsghana.com.gh