The GPRTU transport fares proposal remains under review as the union warns that commuters could face higher charges.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union says there is a strong possibility of a fare increase, although no final decision has been taken.
The union is waiting for a committee to complete its assessment of transport operating costs.
GPRTU maintains its 30% fare proposal
Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, said the union was still maintaining its proposed 30% increase.
He explained that the final adjustment would depend on the findings of the committee reviewing the various cost inputs.
Mr Amoah made the remarks during an interview on TV3’s Ghana Tonight.
According to him, the committee is expected to submit its report before the end of the week.
The GPRTU will then use the findings to determine the next step in the fare discussions.
Committee reviews transport operating costs
The committee was formed after the GPRTU and the Ministry of Transport agreed to examine the factors affecting commercial transport operations.
The review is expected to cover the costs that influence the fares paid by passengers.
The exercise will help the parties assess whether the proposed increase is justified by current operating conditions.
The union says it will consider the committee’s report before deciding on the percentage of any possible adjustment.
Rising fuel prices add pressure
The discussions come amid fresh concerns over rising fuel prices.
According to the latest pricing outlook from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies, petrol prices could increase by about 9.63%.
Diesel prices are also projected to rise by 6.97%, while liquefied petroleum gas prices could go up by 3.22%.
The projections have increased concerns about the cost of running commercial vehicles.
Proposed fare increase is not yet approved
Despite the GPRTU’s position, passengers have not been directed to pay higher fares.
The proposed 30% adjustment remains subject to discussions between the transport unions and the Ministry of Transport.
The final decision will depend on the committee’s findings and subsequent negotiations.
Mr Amoah, however, warned that the current situation could make a fare increase difficult to avoid.
“From how things are going, the possibility of transport fare increment is very high,” he said.
For now, commuters will have to wait for the outcome of the review before knowing whether transport fares will change.
Source: 3News
