Transport fares go up by 15 per cent

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has announced 15 per cent increase across board in transport fares with immediate effect.

A statement signed by Mr. E. K. Gbedemah, National Chairman of the Union, said the National Working Committee decided on the increase at a meeting held on Thursday, following a careful study of other factors, rather than fuel prices, which are considered in determining fares.

The Union listed some of these factors as bank rates, cost of tyres, spare parts and lubricants.

The statement asked all regional secretariats of the Union to ensure strict compliance with the directive and also take appropriate measures against any driver found to be charging rates other than the approved 15 per cent.

It further advised passengers to report any driver, who would charge rates above the stipulated fares to the nearest GPRTU Secretariat noting the vehicle registration number for appropriate action.

Reaction to 10 per cent increase in fuel prices announced by the Bulk Oil Supply and Transport (BOST) last December, the National Working Committee of the GPRTU issued a statement that fuel constitutes only 15 per cent of lorry fares and that the increase at the time was negligible.

The Union, therefore, did not increase lorry fares, but said it was monitoring the situation and would come out at the appropriate time.