We have no option than to pass on the 3% increase in fuel price to passengers

Private road transport operators have announced that they will be adjusting transport fares in a few days.

According to the Ghana Committed Drivers Association, Concern Drivers Association and True Drivers Union, the decision is because of the 3% increase in fuel prices on Sunday.

“As a result of the 3% increase in fuel price, a gallon of fuel which was sold for ¢27.22 is now being sold for ¢28.35,” parts of the statement read.

The groups stated that the resolve to adjust the fares is in fulfilment of their statement issued on May 16, in which they decided that “any time fuel prices, spare parts, and other levies relating to road transport go up, we will also adjust our lorry fares to reflect the increment.”

The groups stated that they are disappointed in government for failing to keep its promises to transport operators on ensuring that fuel prices and spare parts remain stable.

“As we speak, government is making frantic efforts to increase road tolls, and transport operators are going to bear the brunt should it be implemented.”

“We wish to entreat our customers and the general public to bear with us in this situation as our transport business is reeling under a lot of pressure following astronomical increases in our input cost.”

This comes barely two weeks after transport fares were increased by 13% by the Ghana Private Roads Transport Union (GPRTU).

In a press statement, GPRTU revealed that the increase accommodates the increase in fuel prices announced in May 2021, after long negotiations with stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the GPRTU which is the largest transport union body in the country is not part of this decision.