Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Andreas Kamasah
Published on 2024-04-16 15:28:39
The General Secretary of the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), Emmanuel Ohene Yeboah, has spoken out against proposed fare increases by driver unions, deeming them illegal. Yeboah pointed out that the driver unions failed to comply with fare reduction directives in 2022 despite significant drops in fuel prices. He argued that until fuel prices surpass the levels recorded during the last approved increase, any fare hikes cannot be justified.
According to Yeboah, the lack of compliance from drivers indicates that the proposed fare hikes are not intended to cover legitimate operational expenses but rather to preserve illicit gains. He emphasized that discussions for fare adjustments are initiated only when fuel prices either increase or decrease by 10% from the previous adjustment. Recent fuel price hikes, in Yeboah’s view, have not significantly impacted the operational costs of public transport vehicles but rather serve to maintain unjustified profit margins.
Yeboah highlighted instances where fuel prices dropped by over 25%, and the council urged members to reduce fares by 10% to benefit passengers. However, the non-compliance from drivers further underscores the council’s stance against increasing fares until fuel prices exceed 23 Ghanaian cedis per litre.
The GRTCC fully supports the Transport Ministry’s call for the arrest of drivers implementing unauthorized fare hikes, signaling a united front in addressing the issue. The focus remains on achieving a delicate balance between fair pricing and sustainable transport operations in Ghana, with passengers and drivers eagerly awaiting further developments in the ongoing debate.
Yeboah reiterated that until fuel prices reach 23 Ghanaian cedis per litre, as stipulated by established regulations and protocols, no approval for fare increases will be granted. By adhering to these standards and protocols, the council aims to ensure that fare adjustments are made in a transparent and fair manner that benefits both passengers and drivers.
In conclusion, the debate over fare increases in Ghana reflects broader concerns about accountability and fairness in the transportation sector. The GRTCC’s steadfast position against unauthorized fare hikes serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance and the need to prioritize the interests of all stakeholders in the industry. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential to uphold transparent and equitable practices to ensure sustainable and accessible transport services for all.
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