The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has raised concerns over the chaotic situation at bus stops and the extortion of trotro drivers by schedule boys. According to Alhaji Abass Moro, the GPRTU’s Public Relations Officer, the situation has become unbearable, with every bus stop turning into a makeshift loading station. This has led to passengers opting for picking cars on roadsides instead of going to main stations as they try to avoid the chaos.
Alhaji Moro finds it particularly alarming that schedule boys are charging drivers after loading cars, essentially extorting money from them. He questions why these boys are allowed to parade themselves as owners of the bus stops, demanding fees from drivers who want to operate. The situation is further complicated by the fact that some of these boys carry knives and weapons, threatening drivers who refuse to pay.
The GPRTU PRO laments that the law seems to favor the schedule boys, leaving trotro drivers vulnerable to exploitation. He urges the authorities to take immediate action to address these issues and restore order to the bus stops. According to Alhaji Moro, the current situation is unsustainable and is having a negative impact on the livelihoods of trotro drivers.
The GPRTU’s concerns highlight the need for effective regulation and oversight of bus stops and transportation hubs. By addressing the issues raised by Alhaji Moro, the authorities can help create a more orderly and safer environment for both drivers and passengers. This would also help to reduce the financial burden on trotro drivers and promote a more sustainable transportation system.
The GPRTU’s call for action is a timely reminder of the importance of effective governance and regulation in the transportation sector. By working together with stakeholders, including drivers, passengers, and schedule boys, the authorities can find solutions to the challenges facing the industry and promote a more efficient and safe transportation system.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a transportation system that is fair, safe, and efficient for all stakeholders. By addressing the concerns raised by the GPRTU, the authorities can help promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the overall quality of life for Ghanaians.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku.
