Joseph Bukari Nikpe,  Minister of Transport, is set to meet with key stakeholders on Tuesday, February 11, to address growing concerns over rising transport fares. The discussions will focus on a proposed fare increase driven by escalating fuel prices and higher vehicle maintenance costs, as commercial drivers call for adjustments.

The meeting will include representatives from the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Drivers Association. Minister Nikpe, who has been engaged in informal discussions with industry groups, expressed the need for a comprehensive dialogue. “Unofficially, I have engaged them. Tomorrow, we will be engaging them too,” he stated ahead of the talks.

In addition to fare increases, the Minister has highlighted the need to eliminate intermediaries, commonly referred to as “goro” boys, who disrupt the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) registration process. Nikpe stressed that their involvement leads to delays for applicants adhering to the official procedures.

The government is also focusing on improving service delivery at the DVLA. Julius Neequaye Kotey, CEO of the DVLA, announced plans to implement 24-hour operations at DVLA offices as part of the country’s broader 24-hour economy initiative. “For DVLA, this is just a start. Any other service we render to the people would be on a 24-hour basis,” he noted.

Nikpe further urged DVLA staff to adopt a more efficient and customer-focused approach to ensure smoother operations and better service. The outcome of the upcoming stakeholder meeting is expected to be pivotal in determining future transport fare policies in Ghana.

Source:TheDotNews