Transport unions are set to engage the Ministry of Transport today, Tuesday, July 28, over a proposed 30 percent increase in transport fares as operators cite rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of vehicle spare parts.
The meeting comes after transport unions called for an upward review of fares, arguing that escalating operating expenses have placed significant financial pressure on commercial drivers across the country.
The outcome of the discussions is expected to determine whether transport fares will be adjusted in the coming days or whether the government will introduce measures to ease the burden on transport operators.
Speaking to Citi News ahead of the meeting, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, said the union remains open to dialogue but will table its proposed fare adjustment if no immediate solution is offered to address the surge in fuel prices.
“They want to engage us and listen to what we have to say. If they believe there is nothing they can do about the high cost of petroleum products, we will lay our proposed percentage on the table for negotiation. Whatever agreement we reach, we will communicate to our members,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has urged the government to restore the fuel price intervention introduced during the height of the Middle East crisis, insisting that the measure previously helped cushion consumers against sharp increases in petroleum prices.
Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, noted that the temporary intervention reduced fuel prices and offered relief to transport operators, businesses and private motorists.
He recalled that when diesel prices neared GH¢18 per litre, COPEC appealed to the government to step in, leading to a reduction of GH¢2 per litre on diesel and GH¢2.09 per litre on petrol.
“We are appealing to the government to reintroduce that intervention because diesel is once again approaching GH¢18 per litre, and indications are that prices could rise even further,” he said.
Today’s meeting is expected to shape the next steps for both government and transport operators, with commuters closely watching for a decision that could affect transport fares nationwide.
