KMA cracks down on unapproved transport fares, engages 24 unions ahead of Christmas

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has taken a firm stance against commercial transport operators charging unauthorized fares, threatening prosecution and public naming of offenders. This stern warning was delivered during a meeting with leaders of 24 registered transport unions in Kumasi, aimed at discussing ways to enhance safety, organization, and efficiency in the city's transportation system. The meeting was part of KMA's routine quarterly engagements with transport operators.

During the discussion, Randy Wilson, the Head of KMA's Transport Department, emphasized that the assembly is no longer content with merely impounding offending vehicles and charging fines. Instead, KMA will now pursue legal action against drivers and vehicle owners who flout transport regulations. The assembly has also ordered these operators to revert to the previously approved fare rates, which were increased by 8% following a General Assembly resolution ahead of the Christmas season.

Any deviation from the approved fare must be calculated on the existing fare, not on the illegally adjusted fare.

Mr. Wilson stressed that KMA will deploy task forces to monitor major terminals and loading points, and any driver found guilty of charging unauthorized fares will face arrest and prosecution. Joseph Mensah, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Progressive Transport Owners’ Association (PROTOA) and leader of the 24 unions, expressed full support for KMA's stern measures, highlighting the need to restore discipline and sanity on the roads.

He criticized unregulated 'trotro' operators for charging unapproved fares and for the practice of short-short loading, where passengers are forced to pay multiple fares for short distances. Mensah proposed that KMA issue official stickers to all registered commercial vehicles belonging to recognized unions, to help expose operators who charge unapproved fares and protect passengers from exploitation.

Kwasi Agyenim Boateng, the Regional Director of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), called on transport operators to prioritize compliance with road safety regulations to prevent accidents and improve the overall efficiency of the transportation system. The Metro Coordinating Director, Francis Dwira Darko, reaffirmed KMA's commitment to working closely with transport operators to address challenges and improve the commuting experience for residents of Kumasi.