The Ghana Road Transport Coordinated Council (GRTCC) has attributed the rounding up of transport fares to a shortage of coins in circulation. According to the Council's General Secretary, Emmanuel Ohene Yeboah, the lack of coins makes it difficult for drivers to provide exact change, leading to fares being rounded up. This issue has arisen following the approved 8% increase in transport fares that took effect on September 26.
The 8% fare adjustment was implemented after engagements between transport operators and the Ministry of Transport. Transport operators had attributed the increase to rising fuel prices, spare parts, and other operational costs. However, some passengers have complained that drivers are charging more than the approved 8% increase, with some fares reportedly being rounded up at various transport terminals.
For instance, passengers traveling on a route where the previous fare was GH¢50 have reported paying GH¢55 instead of the GH¢54 that would result from an exact 8% increase. The GRTCC has deployed officers to monitor fares at various terminals to address these concerns. The Council has also provided transport operators with a fare template showing the old and new fares to guide implementation of the adjustment.
Mr. Yeboah emphasized that the Council is aware of the concerns and is working to address them. He explained that the Council's monitoring system is being used to identify and address instances where operators may depart from the approved fares. The GRTCC is committed to ensuring that transport operators adhere to the approved fare structure.
The shortage of coins in circulation is a significant challenge in Ghana, with many businesses and individuals relying on digital payment systems. However, cash transactions remain common, particularly in the transport sector. The GRTCC's comments highlight the need for a more efficient coin distribution system to prevent such issues in the future.
The 8% fare increase has been a subject of debate, with some passengers expressing concerns about the impact on their daily commutes. The GRTCC's efforts to monitor fares and address concerns are crucial in maintaining public trust in the transport system. The Council's actions will help to ensure that transport operators adhere to the approved fare structure and provide fair services to passengers.
The GRTCC's General Secretary, Emmanuel Ohene Yeboah, has assured the public that the Council is committed to addressing the issues surrounding the fare increase. He emphasized that the Council will continue to monitor fares and take action against operators who depart from the approved fare structure. The GRTCC's efforts aim to promote a fair and efficient transport system in Ghana.
Key points
- The Ghana Road Transport Coordinated Council (GRTCC) has deployed officers to monitor fares at various terminals to address concerns about the rounding up of transport fares.
- The shortage of coins in circulation is contributing to the rounding up of transport fares, making it difficult for drivers to provide exact change.
- The 8% fare increase was implemented to account for rising fuel prices, spare parts, and other operational costs.
