The Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, says drivers who charge passengers unapproved transport fares will face sanctions under provisions contained in the new road transport regulations.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s morning show in Accra on Monday, September 14, 2026, Samuel Amoah said the GPRTU brings together key stakeholders in the transport sector, including drivers, mates and vehicle owners.
He stressed that the union is not a political organisation but was established to bring transport operators together, protect their interests and promote discipline within the sector.
According to him, transport fares are determined through consultations, taking into consideration the prevailing cost of operating commercial vehicles.
Samuel Amoah explained that the old LI, the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), contained provisions relating to drivers operating outside recognised transport unions.
He said such drivers were among those who could operate outside the structures of recognised transport unions and were often associated with the charging of unapproved fares.
Mr. Amoah said it is the new LI that has specifically factored in the issue of drivers charging fares outside the officially approved rates, providing a basis for dealing with such conduct under the new regulatory framework.
He criticised the government, particularly the Ministry of Transport, for weaknesses in the enforcement of transport regulations and said proper implementation of the new provisions would help protect passengers from arbitrary fare increases.
30% Fare Increase Put on Hold
His comments follow the postponement of a proposed 30 percent increase in public transport fares following discussions between the transport unions and the Ministry of Transport.
Samuel Amoah said the decision to put the proposed increase on hold was to allow the Ministry and transport unions to establish whether increases in spare parts, vehicle maintenance and other operational costs justify an adjustment in fares.
He said a committee has been given one week to conduct enquiries and receive reports from stakeholders on the factors affecting transport operations.
According to him, the outcome of the exercise will determine whether there is a genuine need to increase transport fares.
He said the GPRTU wants the decision to be based on evidence and the actual economic situation facing transport operators.
Samuel Amoah disclosed that the union had already received complaints about some drivers charging passengers fares outside the approved rates.
He assured the public that once the committee completes its work and a decision is reached, the GPRTU will officially communicate any approved fare adjustment to its various transport unions and members.
He urged drivers and passengers to wait for the outcome of the consultations and cautioned drivers against unilaterally increasing transport fares.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah/Ahotoronline/Accra.
