Regarding the alleged hike in transport charges by the Ghana Private Road and Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, the Ministry of Transportation has requested that the public ignore the claims.

The Ministry stated in a statement released on Wednesday, January 17, that “no negotiations have taken place with the transport operators regarding a review of the transport fares.” Therefore, we strongly advise the public to ignore the alleged rise.

“When it becomes necessary for such negotiations and the decisions are taken, the general public will be appropriately informed, as has been done in the past.”

In a press release, the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana said that the aforementioned fare increase was caused by a “substantial rise in the costs of lubricants and spare parts, coupled with increment on DVLA service charges,” adding that this was having a major negative effect on the members’ livelihoods.

The high expense of upkeep and repairs was another complaint voiced by the transport companies.

The commercial transport operators stated in the press release that “the proposal for a fare increase aims to ensure the sustainability of the public transport industry in Ghana and address the financial challenges faced by the drivers.”

In a press release, the Ghana Private Road and Transport Union (GPRTU) further stated that a national management meeting, held on January 16, 2024, at the Trades Union House, resolved to raise transport fares by 20% for all union loading points starting on January 24, 2024.