Commercial drivers
After fuel prices increased on Tuesday, July 16 after a 4% margin, commercial transport drivers announced a 15% increase in transport fares, effective Monday, July 22.
This latest fare increment brings the total number of increases to three within a space of just seven months.
The frequent fare increases have sparked online debate about their impacts on the cost of living in the country.
Here is a breakdown of all transport fare increments in 2024 alone;
1. 30% fare increase in March
Commercial drivers announced a 30% fare increment which took effect on March 7.
The increment came from a hike in fuel prices and the government’s failure to address their concerns.
2. 20% fare increase in April
VIP JEOUN transport announced a fare hike on April 26, 2024.
The new fare saw passengers travelling from Accra to Kumasi paying GH¢120, and travellers from Accra to Sunyani paying GH¢170.
Other places were not spared by the increment as commuters travelling from Accra to Techiman paid GH¢170, and to Sampa GH¢140.
For commercial transport drivers, a 15%-20% hike was implemented as a result of the fuel price increment.
Despite a directive by the transport ministry instructing drivers not to increase prices, some drivers disregarded it and implemented new fares anyway.
3. 15% fare hike in July
Transport drivers earlier this week, announced another hike in fares, effective Monday, July 22.
The drivers attributed the decision to the rising cost of fuel, with some oil marketing companies now selling products at prices exceeding GH¢15.
Additionally, increased prices of essential items like spare parts, which is important for the transport business also necessitated the decision.
MAG/AE
