Santasi commercial drivers park vehicles to protest arrests over GH¢1 fare increase

Commercial drivers working on the Santasi-Tech and Santasi-Ejisu routes in Kumasi have halted their operations and parked their vehicles in a protest against the arrest of some of their colleagues for charging an extra GH¢1 on fares. The drivers argue that the fare increase is necessary to help them cope with the rising cost of fuel and escalating operating expenses.

They insist they will not resume service until authorities engage with them regarding the fare change and cease the frequent arrests and prosecutions of drivers. This move has left numerous passengers stranded at the Santasi station. Some drivers argue that despite the government proposing a 30 percent hike in transport fares, the adjustment has yet to be implemented.

Consequently, they have been forced to add GH¢1 to the existing fares to offset the increasing fuel costs. However, they claim that drivers charging the extra fee are being arrested and fined. One driver expressed frustration over the low income earned after accounting for fuel and other operational costs. He questioned how they could make a living when their earnings were meager.

The drivers contend that the high fuel prices have made it challenging to earn a decent income, even when working full days. They maintain that while authorities have the authority to arrest them, they will continue to park their vehicles until their concerns about fares are addressed.