The Ministry of Transport has issued a directive to the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to arrest any driver found charging unapproved new fares, as negotiations for an increase in transport fares are ongoing.
In a statement released by the Ministry’s Public Relations Unit on Sunday, April 14, 2024, it was emphasized that drivers should continue to charge the old fares until an agreement is reached. Despite this directive, there have been reports of some drivers already implementing new fares.
The statement also urged the security agencies to be vigilant and ensure compliance with the directive issued by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC).
While the Western Regional branch of the GPRTU announced a 20% increment in fares, the Transport Operators Union and the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana proposed a 30% increase set to take effect on Saturday, April 13. The drivers cited rising fuel prices and operating expenses as the basis for the fare adjustment.
However, the Transport Ministry has urged commercial drivers to adhere to the existing public transport fares until further notice. The Ministry reiterated that any driver found charging unauthorized fares will face repercussions.
Negotiations between the transport operators and the government are still ongoing, and all parties are encouraged to cooperate to reach a mutually beneficial agreement in the best interest of both drivers and commuters.
