Public transport users across Ghana are bracing themselves for an increase in transportation fares as the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana announced a 30% increment, effective January 22, 2024.
The announcement came as a result of escalating costs of lubricants, spare parts, and an increment in the DVLA service charges. The Commercial Transport Operators explained that these factors have significantly affected the livelihoods of drivers nationwide, necessitating the fare hike.
In a statement issued in Accra and signed by William Osei (Paa Willie), the chairman of the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, the association highlighted the crucial impact of the rising costs on drivers and their ability to maintain their vehicles. Osei stated, “The substantial rise in the costs of lubricants, spare parts, and DVLA service charges has severely affected our ability to keep our vehicles in optimal condition. This has resulted in reduced operational efficiency and increased downtime, negatively impacting both drivers and the commuting public.”
The announcement has sparked concerns among the public, many of whom rely heavily on public transport for their daily commuting. The fare increment is expected to put a financial strain on passengers, especially those who rely on public transport to travel longer distances to work or school.
However, the Commercial Transport Operators argue that the fare hike is necessary to ensure the viability of their operations and provide quality service to the public. They also emphasized that the increased costs have left them with no choice but to pass some of the burden onto the commuters.
Public transport users are likely to voice their grievances against the fare increase, as they already face daily challenges with the existing fare rates.
Below is the full statement:
The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana wish to announce a 30% increment in transportation fares throughout the country on Monday January 22, 2024.
This has become necessary due to the substantial rise in the costs of lubricants, spare parts coupled with increment on DVLA service charges, which has significantly impacted the livelihoods of drivers across Ghana.
We in the public transportation sector have been grappling with mounting expenses, making it increasingly challenging to sustain our operations.
The continuous surge in lubricant prices, driven by fluctuations in global oil markets, has resulted in a considerable burden on drivers who rely heavily on oil to keep our vehicles running efficiently.
Additionally, the escalating costs of spare parts, particularly for maintenance and repairs, have severely affected our ability to keep our vehicles in optimal condition.
This has resulted in reduced operational efficiency and increased downtime, negatively impacting both drivers and the commuting public.
Furthermore, our welfare has been significantly impacted by higher taxes imposed on the sector. This has put immense pressure on our earnings and made it increasingly difficult for us to cover our overheads and provide for the families.
Recognizing the adverse effects of these circumstances, the Transport Operators Association has engaged in extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including some state agencies and other transport associations.
The proposal for a fare increase aims to address the drivers’ financial challenges and ensure the sustainability of the public transportation industry in Ghana.
This fare adjustment is a necessary step to maintain the quality and efficiency of their services, benefiting both drivers and the commuting public in the long run.
It is crucial to strike a balance that considers the interests of the drivers while ensuring that transportation remains affordable and accessible for all.
We remain committed to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services to the Ghanaian public.
Together, with the support of all stakeholders, we can build a sustainable and thriving transportation sector that benefits both drivers and passengers alike.
We will also be advised or forced to increase it again by 30 percent if the eco tax gets parliamentary approval.
Signed…
William Osei (Paa Willie)
chairman Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana
Nana Owiredu
Secretary Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana
Yaw Barima
PRO True Drivers Union
David Agboado
National PRO Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana
Akwaada Nyame
Ashanti Regional Chairman
Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana
By Vincent Kubi