In response to recent reports circulating about an impending increase in public transport fares, the Road Transport Operators have issued a statement firmly denying any such decision.
Mr. Godfred Abulbire, General Secretary of the Road Transport Operators, in a statement, categorically stated that no decision has been made regarding fare adjustments.
“It has come to our notice that a group calling itself Transport Operators Association has announced their intention to increase public transport fares by 15% effective Monday 22nd July 2024.
“According to them, their actions are a result of the recent 2.5% increment in fuel prices in the second pricing window of July 2024. We wish to inform the general public that there has not been any decision taken to increase transport fares as being speculated about”.
Mr. Godfred Abulbire, General Secretary of the Road Transport Operators
While acknowledging the marginal increase in fuel prices, the Road Transport Operators General Secretary pointed out that the association is still in discussions with stakeholders to consider the various factors influencing their operations.
“Though we recognize that there has been some marginal increase in the price of petroleum products, we will continue to engage with stakeholders to give consideration to the various inputs into our operations,” the statement read.
Mr. Godfred Abulbire further clarified that no engagements with relevant stakeholders have occurred regarding a fare increase at this time.
As a result, Mr. Godfred Abulbire emphasized that transport fares will remain unchanged until a formal decision is reached and officially communicated to the public.
Call for Compliance Among Transport Operators
In a fervent call for compliance, the Road Transport Operators General Secretary, Mr. Godfred Abulbire urged all commercial transport operators to adhere to the existing fare structure.
He expressed the Road Transport Operators’ unwavering commitment to work and serve in the best interest and for the welfare of all Transport Operators and the general public.
Mr Abulbire also underscored the association’s dedication to balancing the operational needs of transport operators with the economic realities faced by the commuting public.
In addition, the Road Transport Operators General Secretary, Mr Gdfred Yeboah reassured the public that any future decisions regarding fare changes would follow comprehensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders.
These decisions, he noted would then be transparently communicated to ensure that all parties are adequately informed.
The declaration by the Road Transport Operators aims to quell public anxiety and uncertainty sparked by the earlier announcement from the “Transport Operators Association”.
By affirming their commitment to the interests of both transport operators and the general public, the Road Transport Operators seek to maintain stability in the public transport sector amidst fluctuating fuel prices.
However, in an earlier development, the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana announced a 15% increase in transport fares, effective Monday, July 22.
The association cited the rising cost of fuel as a primary reason for the fare hike, with some oil marketing companies now selling products at prices exceeding GH₵15.
The association further added that increased prices of essential items such as spare parts, crucial for the transport business, have further necessitated this decision.
David Agboado, the Public Relations Officer of the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, expressed concerns about the adverse effects these rising costs are having on the transport sector, emphasizing that the fare increase is justified given the current economic pressures.
READ ALSO: Lack of Quality Production in Ghanaian Movies, a Call for Action
