Following the agreement between the transport ministry and the Ghana Road Transport Union to reduce transport fares by 15% effective Saturday, May 24, in line with reduced fuel prices, passengers felt a sigh of relief.
However, implementation of the directive has been uneven. While some drivers have adjusted their fares in line with the directive, others continue to charge the old rates.
Some transport operators blame delays in receiving the official fare chart, while others point to high vehicle maintenance costs and rising spare part prices, making the reduction difficult to sustain.
“I used to charge 7 cedis, but now I take 6 cedis. My concern now is, as we have complied with the directive and reduced fares, what is government doing about the exorbitant cost of living crisis in the country. I work from Circle to Kasoa, but I travelled, when I came back I hear the supervisors are yet to paste the chart of the new fares. Although prices of transport fares have reduced, the prices of fuel and spare parts are still high. I journey to Mamprobi, we used to take 6.50p, but now we charge 5.50p. For now there hasn’t been any confusion with our passengers. Prices of tyre are still expensive on the market,” they explained.
Passengers have mixed reactions. For those enjoying the reduced fares, the change is welcome. But on routes where the new rates are not being applied, frustration is mounting. Many commuters say they are often confused about what fare to pay.
“This reduction has brought some relief to us the passengers, because the prices was very high and things were not going well. I come from Kole Gonno, they used to charge 6 cedis, but today I was charged 5 cedis. For me, the 1 cedis reduction is okay, at least I can use it to buy water. I don’t know of any price reduction, I am now coming to town. But at least if they take 3.50p of 4 cedis it won’t be bad,” they cried.
As talks between authorities and transport unions continue, the key challenge remains enforcement. Until a uniform implementation is achieved and the interest of passengers is protected, many will be left to their fate.
By Andy Oppong Dankyi
