Transport fares in Ghana may soon go up as fuel prices are expected to increase in the next pricing window, according to the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU).
The anticipated adjustment comes ahead of the second fuel pricing window set to take effect on Monday, March 16. Industry analysts say pump prices could rise across the country, adding pressure on commercial transport operators who are already grappling with high operating costs.
Recent industry data shows the indicative price floor for petrol has jumped to GH¢11.57 per litre, up from GH¢10.46 recorded between March 1 and March 15.
Diesel prices have surged even more sharply, rising from GH¢11.42 to GH¢14.35 per litre. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has also increased from GH¢9.38 to GH¢10.67 per kilogramme.
Within the span of a single month, that represents increases of GH¢1.11 for petrol, GH¢2.93 for diesel and GH¢1.29 for LPG—changes transport operators say are significantly raising the cost of running their vehicles.
Abass Imoro, Industrial Relations Officer of the GPRTU, said drivers are already feeling the financial strain, particularly as the prices of spare parts, lubricants and other maintenance essentials continue to rise.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Sunday, March 15, Imoro revealed that the union had recently stepped in to prevent some drivers from increasing fares on their own.
“We work for profit, and for some time now fares have remained unchanged,” he said. “Some drivers tried to increase prices, but we intervened to stop them. That shows they are looking for adjustments.”
While the union has historically been cautious about revising transport fares, Imoro indicated that a sustained increase in fuel prices would likely force a review.
“If the price of fuel goes up, then naturally everyone should expect a change in lorry fares,” he added.
Any fare adjustment would affect millions of commuters who rely on commercial transport daily, raising concerns about the broader cost-of-living pressures facing households across the country.
Source:TheDotNews