Samuel Amoah
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has suspended its proposed 30 percent increase in transport fares following discussions with the Ministry of Transport.
National Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, said the decision follows an agreement between the transport unions and government to conduct a survey into the cost of operating commercial vehicles.
Mr. Amoah said the GPRTU had submitted a proposal to the Transport Ministry for a 30 percent fare increase, citing rising fuel prices, the cost of spare parts, lubricants and taxes.
He said the union agreed to suspend the proposed increase after government committed to reviewing the factors contributing to rising transport operating costs.
“We all agreed that the GRTCC together with the GPRTU and the Transport Ministry will form a committee to do this survey,” Mr. Amoah said.
According to him, the committee will assess whether the prices of spare parts and other inputs have actually declined and examine broader market conditions.
Mr. Amoah said the committee is expected to present its findings before the parties return to the negotiating table to determine whether a fare increase is necessary.
“After presenting their report, we will again come back to the negotiation table to do another review to see if there is the need for us to go ahead and do that,” he said.
Current Fares To Remain
Mr. Amoah said transport operators are expected to maintain existing fares until a new agreement is reached.
He said the union expects the review to be completed before the next fuel pricing window, which is expected between this week and next week.
“We have given them a job to do and I believe that the next price window is just around the corner. Between this week and next week, I believe all this survey will be done for them to submit their report,” he said.
Mr. Amoah also acknowledged concerns over government’s decision to reduce the price of diesel by GH¢2 per litre, while petrol users have not received a similar reduction.
He said the transport unions raised the issue during their meeting with government.
According to him, government explained that the reduction was targeted at diesel because a larger number of commercial vehicles use diesel and its price remains relatively high.
Mr. Amoah said the unions would continue to engage government on the matter, but for now, commercial transport operators are expected to maintain current fares until the review is completed and a decision is reached on any possible adjustment.
A Daily Guide Report