GPRTU to announce new transport fares this week after fuel price hike

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is set to announce changes to transport fares this week, following another rise in fuel prices. Deputy Spokesperson Samuel Amoah revealed that the decision is necessary as transport operators struggle with higher fuel costs along with increased expenses for spare parts, lubricants, and taxes.

Initially, the union proposed a 30% increase in fares during a meeting in August, but this proposal was postponed after the government reduced the price of diesel by GH¢2 and assured measures to lower costs. However, this reduction did not occur during the middle pricing window of August, and transport operators continued to face high operating costs.

Amoah stated that the latest fuel price hike leaves the union with limited options to maintain the current fares. The union will reassess the current fuel price changes before finalizing the new fares, with leadership meeting to determine if the increase will be 30%, 20%, or another percentage. While fuel prices are a significant factor, Amoah also highlighted the rising costs of spare parts, lubricants, and taxes as contributors to the pressure on transport fares.