Commuters across Ghana could soon pay more for public transportation as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) considers a possible increase in transport fares following an expected rise in fuel prices.
The GPRTU has confirmed that discussions are ongoing, with a decision on new public transport fares in Ghana expected by the end of the week.
The Union’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah, said the anticipated increase in the prices of petrol and diesel could make a review of existing transport fares necessary.
Fuel Prices Expected to Increase
Fuel prices are expected to rise from Wednesday, September 16, with the price of petrol potentially exceeding GH¢16 per litre, while diesel could rise above GH¢19 per litre.
Speaking to Citi News on Tuesday, September 15, Mr Amoah said the GPRTU had received information about the expected fuel price increase and had conducted checks to confirm the development.
He explained that negotiations were already underway over a proposed 30% adjustment in transport fares, which is currently before the Ministry of Transport.
According to him, any additional increase in fuel prices would significantly increase the likelihood of higher trotro and commercial transport fares.
Transport Fares Could Rise by 25% to 30%
Mr Amoah said the exact percentage of the proposed Ghana transport fare increase had not yet been determined.
However, he indicated that the adjustment could fall within the range of 25% to 30%, depending on the outcome of negotiations and developments in fuel prices.
The GPRTU official said the Union would continue engaging relevant authorities before announcing any final decision on new fares.
New Transport Fares Will Not Take Effect Immediately
The GPRTU has also assured passengers that any approved increase in public transportation fares will not take effect immediately after an agreement is reached.
Mr Amoah explained that transport operators typically provide commuters with a grace period to prepare for changes in fares.
He stressed that the Union would not announce an agreement one day and immediately implement new fares the following day.
The grace period is intended to give passengers and transport operators adequate time to adjust to the new transportation costs.
GPRTU Urges Commuters to Prepare
As negotiations continue, the GPRTU has advised commuters to prepare for the possibility of higher transport fares.
An increase in fuel prices could have a direct impact on the operating costs of commercial transport operators and, consequently, the cost of travelling across Ghana.
Commuters are therefore being encouraged to monitor announcements from the GPRTU and transport authorities for updates on the final decision regarding the proposed 25% to 30% transport fare adjustment.
The development could have a significant impact on household budgets, particularly for workers, students and other Ghanaians who rely heavily on trotros, taxis and other forms of public transportation.
Source: newsthemegh.com