K?dua drivers hike fares

Koforidua, (Eastern Region) -- WITH about for weeks to go for Christmas, some commercial drivers at Koforidua have increased their lorry fares, even though there has not been any increase in fuel prices.

This came to light when this reporter went round to get first hand information after receiving several complaints about the illegal faire hikes.

Chronicle investigations revealed that the drivers resorted to over charging because they claim the three passengers they are supposed to pick in the row makes them incur losses.

The investigations further revealed that the illegal act is being carried out by some commercial drivers who ?float? on the streets or ply between Koforidua and Accra, without loading from the stations.

They claim their buses (Urvan buses) are too small and cannot take many passengers.

This refers mainly to mini buses, which used to seat four in a row and thereby make enough take care of their cars and make profit as well.

When contacted, the Eastern Regional Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU, Mr. Joseph K. Cudjoe, said he had received several complaints of the illegal increases of fares in the municipality.

According to him, he had warned all drivers engaging in the illegal business to desist from doing so or face prosecution.

He urged all stationmasters to report drivers who indulge in the illegal business to the police for action to be taken against them.

He further urged them to ensure that their lorry parks are kept clean since it is said that cleanliness is next to godliness.

Mr. Cudjoe was, however, happy that the government is fulfilling its promise of improving the road network to curb unnecessary accidents on them.

The driver cautioned his colleagues to drive carefully this Christmas and after in order to reduce accident casualties.

The Eastern Regional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU), Mr. James K. Amoah, also described the increase in the lorry fares as an illegal act which calls for prosecution and heavy fines.

He stressed the need for the general public to be extra careful this Christmas to prevent any self inflicted accidents.

Meanwhile, the MTTU has intensified its patrol duties in the towns and on the highways in the region to clamp down on armed robbers and other criminals.

Chronicle learnt that the day and night patrols are geared towards peace during the Christmas, New Year and their succeeding months.