The members of the Concern Drivers Association are adamant about maintaining their recently implemented 20% fare increase, as their meeting with the Ministry of Transport concluded inconclusively.
Dating back to last December, the arrangement for this meeting suggests that the government might be deliberately stalling the approval process for the new transport fares.
Paa Willie, the National Chairman of the Concern Drivers Association of Ghana (C-DAG), voiced this sentiment on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He emphasized that C-DAG has resolved to uphold the 20% fare increase, citing governmental policies affecting the stability of the cedi and the high global prices of crude oil as driving factors.
Willie argued that it’s not in the private transport owners’ best interest to raise fares, but rather a necessity due to the rising costs of car spare parts and fuel. Addressing the alarming increase in accidents during the first quarter of the year, he attributed a significant portion to governmental negligence, particularly citing poorly maintained roads.
Additionally, Willie acknowledged that some of his colleagues contribute to accidents due to factors like fatigue, stress, and drunk driving.
In another development, the Transport Operators Union and the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana jointly announced a 30% increase in transport fares, effective March 7, 2024. Their decision stemmed from the government’s failure to address their concerns, particularly regarding the escalating fuel prices.
A press release by the two bodies expressed disappointment in the leadership’s failure to implement fare adjustments in line with increased operational costs. They emphasized the financial strain imposed by rising fuel prices and highlighted the necessity of fare adjustments to sustain their businesses.
The release called for constructive dialogue between the government, relevant authorities, and sector leaders to address these challenges and implement fare adjustments reflecting current economic realities. Failure to address these concerns by March 6, 2024, would leave them with no choice but to proceed with the fare increments.
