The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has proposed a 15 percent reduction in transport fares across the country.
The union’s decision is influenced by the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the U.S. dollar and projections that fuel prices are expected to decline in the upcoming pricing window.
Speaking exclusively to A1 Radio, the National Secretary of GPRTU, Godfred Abulbire, emphasized that the fare reduction is a proactive measure aimed at easing the financial burden on commuters and reflecting the positive shifts in the macroeconomic landscape.
“With the strength of the cedi improving and fuel prices expected to drop further, we believe it is necessary to reduce fares to benefit the public,” Mr. Abulbire stated.
He further urged all transport terminals and drivers nationwide to comply with the directive, reinforcing that GPRTU is committed to fairness and responsiveness in times of economic change.
However, in the Upper East Region, tricycle operators—popularly known as “Yellow Yellow” riders—have offered a slightly different perspective. The Public Relations Officer for the tricycle operators, Christopher Agana, indicated that instead of the proposed 15 percent, they are prepared to reduce fares by only 10 percent.
He explained that while the operators are not yet officially regulated under the mainstream transport unions, they recognize the need to align with national economic adjustments.
“Our operations are quite different. A tricycle carries only three passengers at a time, while buses can carry ten or more. The cost per trip and profit margins are not the same,” Mr. Agana said.
He added that tricycle riders are disproportionately affected by the cost of spare parts and other maintenance expenses, which have not seen the same level of reduction as fuel prices.
“We are willing to support commuters, but we also need to survive,” he emphasized.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
