The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has indicated that any reduction in transport fares will only be considered when overall operating conditions improve, despite growing pressure on operators to lower fares following recent fuel price declines.
The union’s stance comes amid renewed calls from energy sector analysts and industry observers for transport operators to pass on savings from reduced pump prices to commuters.
However, GPRTU insists that fuel accounts for only part of the cost of running commercial vehicles.
According to the union and several commercial drivers, major operational inputs such as spare parts, vehicle maintenance, tyres, lubricants and financing costs remain high, constraining the ability of operators to immediately reduce fares.
These persistent cost pressures, they argue, continue to outweigh the benefits gained from the recent drop in fuel prices.
Public Relations Officer of GPRTU, Abass Imoro, said the union has consistently demonstrated its readiness to adjust fares when conditions permit.
He cited the 15 per cent reduction in transport fares in May 2025 as evidence of this commitment, noting that the decision was taken voluntarily after a significant improvement in operating conditions.
“The last 15 per cent reduction was not forced on us. We saw the need and acted accordingly. Government was trying to make Ghana smile again, and we joined that effort by doing our part,” he said.
Mr Imoro stressed that while fuel prices have fallen again, other critical costs have remained unchanged.
“We are still buying spare parts and engine oil at the same prices. For instance, the five litres of oil I bought last year at GH¢600 is still selling at GH¢600 today. Despite the appreciation of the cedi, these prices have not come down,” he noted.
He assured commuters that the union would not hesitate to review fares once there is clear and sustained evidence of reductions across key cost components affecting transport operations.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com