The Volta Regional branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has denied reports of a 20 per cent increase in lorry fares across the country and the region.
The Union clarified that no official meeting was held with the Ministry of Transport and other relevant authorities to discuss what could necessitate any approval of such a hike.
Mr. Lawrence Awilo Attitoe, the Volta Regional Vice Chairman, emphasised that the GPRTU was the only recognised union for transport operators in country and any fare adjustments would typically involve discussions with relevant stakeholders, including the government and casted doubt on the legitimacy of the reported fare increase.
” Yes, we know the fuel prices have indeed surged, rising from GH₵11.23 to GH₵14.63 per liter at some pumps. This increase has put significant pressure on commercial drivers who are struggling to maintain profitability, but we are yet to adjust the fares,” he said.
He explained that the GPRTU has consistently advocated for fair and reasonable fare structures that would balance the needs of drivers and passengers, and any fare adjustments would need to be carefully considered to avoid undue hardship on commuters as well.
Mr. Attitoe noted that the lack of clarity over the alleged 20 per cent fare increase by some driver unions has created uncertainty among passengers and transport operators.
He urged all drivers and commuters to remain calm for any official announcement from the GPRTU when needed.
“Without official confirmation from the GPRTU or the Ministry of Transport, many are left wondering about the legitimacy of the reported hike, we need to educate the public on this.”
He said that passengers were likely to be concerned about potential fare increases, especially given the current economic challenges and any unjustified hike could further strain household budgets and impact mobility.
Meanwhile, the denial by the GPRTU has contradicted a recent announcement by the Alliance of Drivers Ghana, which claimed a 20 per cent fare increase due to rising fuel prices and maintenance costs, citing financial pressures on drivers as the reason for the adjustment.
The Alliance of Drivers Ghana also indicated that many drivers were reportedly returning home empty-handed despite long working hours which highlighted the financial strain they faced.
They said that increased expenses for engine oil, spare parts, and vehicle maintenance further exacerbate their challenges.
Some drivers Ghana News Agency, contacted at Keta also lamented about high cost of fuel, lubricants, spare parts, among others has further increase their daily burdens and fare upward adjustment could mitigate their challenges.
Some commuters were also mounting pressure on the GPRTU and other relevant driver unions to address the pressing need to officially clarify the situation to guide transport operators and passengers.
They expressed disappointment and dissatisfaction about the said increment, which was supposed to commence on Saturday, September 27, 2025, while the uncertainty continues to persist regarding the applicability of the reported increase.
It was also revealed that the transport sector in country was deemed highly dynamic, with various unions and associations playing critical roles and the relationship between the groups and the government was also crucial in determining fare policies and ensuring stability in the sector.
Source: GNA
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