The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has hinted at a 30% increase in public transport fares, following its request to the Ministry of Transport for an adjustment to existing fares.Ghana economic insights
Deputy Industrial and Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, disclosed the proposed figure in an interview on Thursday, September 3 in Accra.
He said the figure is based on increases in fuel prices and other operating costs, including spare parts, lubricants, insurance and taxes.
Mr Amoah explained that the union had initially proposed a 30% increase in August but suspended the move following an appeal from government.
He acknowledged the government’s decision to absorb GH¢2 per litre of diesel but said the intervention had not brought fuel prices down sufficiently to prevent the need for a fare review.
Mr Amoah said the current fuel price remains above the level that would allow operators to maintain existing fares without running at a loss.
“If we don’t come out with any increment, the drivers will still be running at a loss,” he said.He, however, indicated that the 30% figure is subject to negotiations with the government and could be reduced. He nevertheless stated that some adjustment to transport fares was expected.
“It’s likely it might come down. But for the increment not to happen, they would have to reduce the fuel price and the other components before we decide not to increase the fares,” he said.