The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has expressed concerns that its ability to regulate transport fares has been undermined by drivers and transport operators who do not belong to the union. According to Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah, the union lacks the power to control non-member drivers who have increased transport fares without approval. This issue has arisen amid ongoing discussions between the Transport Ministry and the GPRTU on fare increments.
The problem began with some VIP and OA drivers who allegedly raised their fares without approval from the Ministry of Transport. The GPRTU reported the matter to the Ministry and was assured that steps would be taken to have the fares reversed, but the situation persisted. The issue later extended to floating drivers, some of whom began charging higher fares during peak hours. The union complained, but no action was taken.
Mr Amoah stated that the GPRTU, as a union, does not have the powers to control drivers who do not fall under their union. He explained that the union later discovered that some of its own drivers were also engaging in the practice of unapproved fare increases. This prompted discussions with the Ministry of Transport on a broader mechanism to regulate fares across the sector.
The GPRTU and the Ministry of Transport have been in discussions to come out with an official approved percentage of transport fares. This agreed fare percentage would provide a uniform benchmark and enable the union to ensure compliance among its members. According to Mr Amoah, they were supposed to finalize everything, but the Minister was not available, and the leadership was asked to hold on.
The issue of unapproved fare increases has been ongoing, with some drivers taking advantage of the situation. The GPRTU is working to find a solution to regulate fares and ensure that drivers comply with approved rates. The union's concerns highlight the challenges in regulating the transport sector, particularly with non-member drivers.
The GPRTU's Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah, provided insight into the situation in an interview on TV3's Daily Brief. He emphasized that the union is working to address the issue and find a solution that will benefit both drivers and passengers. The union's efforts aim to bring order to the transport sector and ensure fair fares for passengers.
The GPRTU says discussions are still ongoing with the Ministry to come out with an official percentage for fare increment for drivers to comply. The union remains committed to finding a solution that will regulate transport fares and ensure compliance among drivers. Key issues, including the lack of power to control non-member drivers and the need for a uniform benchmark, remain at the forefront of the discussions.
Key points
- The GPRTU lacks power to control fares charged by non-member drivers.
- The union is working with the Ministry of Transport to establish an official approved percentage of transport fares.
- Unapproved fare increases have been reported among some VIP, OA, and floating drivers.
