Transport unions will today, Tuesday, July 28, meet with the Ministry of Transport to discuss a proposed 30% increase in transport fares, citing rising fuel prices and the escalating cost of vehicle spare parts.
The talks follow calls by commercial transport operators for an upward adjustment in fares, arguing that the current rates no longer reflect the realities of operating public transport services.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, expressed optimism that the discussions would lead to a mutually acceptable outcome.
According to him, the meeting will determine whether the government is prepared to introduce measures to ease the financial burden on transport operators or proceed with negotiations on a fare increase.
“The Ministry wants to engage us and hear our concerns. If they conclude that there is little they can do about the rising cost of petroleum products, we will present our proposed percentage for negotiation. Whatever agreement is reached will be communicated to our members,” Amoah said.
Transport operators insist that increasing fuel prices, coupled with the rising cost of spare parts and vehicle maintenance, have significantly raised operating costs, making a review of transport fares unavoidable.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has appealed to the government to reinstate the fuel price intervention introduced during the peak of the Middle East crisis, arguing that it effectively shielded consumers from steep fuel price hikes.
COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah said the temporary intervention previously reduced diesel prices by GH¢2 per litre and petrol prices by GH¢2.09 per litre, offering relief to transport operators, businesses and motorists.
He cautioned that diesel prices are once again nearing GH¢18 per litre and could climb even higher if no action is taken.
“We are appealing to the government to reintroduce that intervention because diesel is once again approaching GH¢18 per litre, and indications are that prices could rise even further,” he said.
The outcome of today’s meeting is expected to determine whether transport fares will increase in the coming days or whether government interventions can help stabilize operating costs and avert a fare hike.
Source: 3news
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