The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Alhaji Abass Imoro, has addressed the recent announcement by the Alliance of Drivers Ghana regarding a 20% increase in transportation fares. Speaking on Ahotor FM with host Nana Dogbey, Alhaji Abass described the move as “unfortunate” and emphasized that decisions regarding fare increments should be made collectively by all relevant transport unions.
According to him, the GPRTU, being an autonomous organization, collaborates with other unions under the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) to ensure uniformity in fare adjustment. He criticized the Alliance of Drivers for acting unilaterally, stating that such decisions should reflect mutual respect for passengers and the industry at large.
Alhaji Abass further explained that the GPRTU and other unions have been in discussions with the new Minister of Transport. “The minister had just assumed office when we first approached him, and we were advised to return for further discussions once he had settled into his role,” he said.
He assured the public that the GPRTU and its allied unions are putting measures in place to engage the ministry again. The goal is to ensure that any adjustments to transportation fares are done transparently, taking into account the interests of passengers and the operational costs faced by drivers.
Alhaji Abass also pointed out that the processes involved in fare adjustments are structured and require proper stakeholder engagement. He called on transport operators to avoid taking hasty decisions and instead prioritize respectful dialogue with passengers and industry regulators.
The GPRTU reiterated its commitment to fairness and its responsibility to serve both drivers and passengers in a balanced manner.
Alhaji Abass emphasized the importance of engaging all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transport, before implementing any fare increases.
Alhaji Abass explained that whenever transport fares are reviewed, the GPRTU and other unions meet with the Ministry of Transport to justify the proposed adjustments. “We represent the passengers during these discussions,” he said. “When we calculate the rising costs of spare parts and operational expenses, we advocate on behalf of passengers by negotiating for a reasonable percentage increase. Often, we even suggest reductions to ensure fairness.”
He criticized the practice of individual unions or vehicle owners unilaterally increasing fares, stating that such actions disrupt the system and create confusion. “It’s not acceptable for someone with a fleet of vehicles to wake up and decide to increase fares without following due process. This approach does not work and undermines the collective effort of the unions,” he noted.
Alhaji Abass also cautioned that unilateral fare hikes could have broader consequences for the transport industry. “If a single operator or group makes such mistakes and permits fare increases without proper consultation, it will affect everyone, including passengers and other unions,” he warned.
He urged transport unions and vehicle owners to prioritize collaboration and respect the established processes for fare adjustments. “Our goal is to ensure that the system works for everyone—drivers, unions, and passengers. Let’s avoid hasty decisions and work together to maintain order in the industry,” he concluded.
The GPRTU remains committed to ensuring that fare adjustments are fair, justified, and reflective of the economic realities faced by both drivers and passengers.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
