Some commuters are paying higher transport fares on selected routes despite the suspension of a planned 30% fare increase by transport operators.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport operators had suspended the proposed adjustment following engagements with the government, with both sides agreeing to monitor fuel price movements before introducing any new fare structure.
However, some passengers say fares have already been increased on a number of routes without prior notice.
Speaking to JoyNews, one commuter said the fare from Fadama, which previously cost GH¢6, had increased to GH¢7.
Another passenger travelling from Amasaman to Kaneshie said the fare had jumped from GH¢10 to GH¢14.
“I realised that from my place at Amasaman to Kaneshie used to be GH¢10. Then when we got into the car this morning, they said it was GH¢14. I didn’t hear any announcement of a fare increment,” the commuter said.
A passenger travelling from Koforidua to Accra also complained about what they described as an unexpected increase and called on the authorities to intervene to prevent commuters from being charged arbitrary fares.
Another passenger travelling from Madina to Spintex said the fare on the route had increased from GH¢11 to GH¢14.
“If the government had increased lorry fares, they should make it known,” he said.
The reports come despite the earlier decision by transport operators to suspend the proposed 30% increase following discussions with the government.
The suspension was intended to allow both sides to assess developments in fuel prices before agreeing on a new fare structure.
The apparent increases on some routes have therefore raised concerns among commuters, particularly those who rely on public transport daily and say even modest fare increases place additional pressure on household budgets.
Transport operators are yet to announce a new nationwide fare structure following the suspension of the planned 30% adjustment.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
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