'Jacobu' drivers declare indefinite strike over fare dispute

Commercial drivers in Jacobu, within the Amansie Central District, have declared an indefinite sit-down strike over a dispute regarding transport fare increments.

The drivers reportedly increased fares on major routes without official approval, citing poor road conditions as the reason.

Fares from Afoako Junction to Jacobu have risen from GH¢8.50 to GH¢15, while Jacobu to Kumasi (Kejetia) has increased from GH¢18 to GH¢25. The fare from Jacobu to Bekwai has also gone up from GH¢15 to GH¢20.

The Ghana Police Service has arrested some drivers for charging unapproved fares, with further sanctions expected for defaulters.

The aggrieved drivers, in an interview with OTEC News reporter Kwame Agyenim Boateng, maintained that the poor road network has increased vehicle maintenance costs, forcing them to adjust fares.

Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Johnson Kwakye Francis, said drivers are willing to revert to the old fares if the roads are improved.

“If government fixes our roads, we are ready to reduce the fares to the approved rates immediately.”

Meanwhile, the District Chief Executive, Emmanuel Obeng Agyemang, has urged residents and transport operators to comply with approved fare directives, warning that action will be taken against anyone charging unauthorized fares.

“We will not allow anyone to exploit passengers. The police will deal with all drivers charging fares that are not gazetted,” he said.

He added that Pragya and Okada operators will also be engaged to prevent passengers from being exploited as the strike continues.