Some public transport drivers have lamented about the fuel price hike having a toll on their business and have described the situation as unfavorable.
In an interaction with The Vaultz News, the drivers indicated that the situation has added to the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has on their business and have called for effective measures to be put in place.
Speaking with The Vaultz News, a chief driver who gave his name as William, at the Circle- Neoplan station, said he was expecting an increase in transport fares by the Drivers Union to help reduce the brunt they are bearing.
“The way fuel price too is increasing, it’s not good. So, we are expecting an increase to help us too. If they can reduce it further, they should because since COVID began we haven’t received help from the government. So, this is also the time for us to also increase the fares so we can also take care of our families.”
Mr. William
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU of TUC) last week asked various drivers not to increase their fares yet. The Union informed them that they are yet to determine an appropriate fare adjustment following the recent increase in the price of petroleum products.
Mr. William also noted that the union after the determination of the new fares, must be convenient for all. However, he said if the decision takes too long, they will increase it themselves.
“If the prices are low it will help all of us. As for the fares we will increase it. We have spoken with our leaders to help us out on this one so we are expecting that it will be increased.”
Mr. William
Next increase shouldn’t have a huge impact
Mr. William further averred that government should put measures in place to ensure that the next increase does not have a huge impact on petroleum consumers.
The driver however indicated that an increase in transport fares will help them since COVID-19 measures affected them.
“During the lockdown we had to reduce the number of passengers and we still haven’t made up for our loss and now there is the price increase. So, what can help us will be to increase transportation fares.”
Mr. William
Speaking with another driver, he was of the view that government should stabilize the fuel prices so they can also maintain the transportation fares. This, he said, will be of great benefit to both the drivers and the passengers.
“The number of people who board the cars have reduced these days. And now there is this increase. Government must really do something about it because we are not making enough money.”
A third driver who interacted with The Vaultz News called for permanent measure to be put in place which will ensure that consumers are cushioned in case of another increase.
He also asked that despite the changing petroleum prices, effective measures should be implemented to stabilize prices till the pandemic is over. He explained that things would be better by the time the pandemic is over.
The GPRTU of TUC and the Ghana Coordinating Council (GRTCC) are expected to conclude the review of transport prices this week.
