The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has cautioned commercial drivers against charging fares beyond officially approved rates, urging commuters to push back against any unauthorised increases and report offending drivers to the appropriate authorities.
Speaking in an interview on Accra-based Channel One TV, the union’s Public Relations Officer, Abass Imoro, stressed that arbitrary fare hikes are unlawful and attract sanctions under existing regulations.
He explained that changes in transport fares are guided by a defined process and are formally announced to the public to ensure transparency and prevent abuse.
“Each time we adjust fares, either up or down, a formal communiqué is issued by the Ministry of Transport and disseminated through the media. Since the 15 percent reduction, fares have remained unchanged,” he said.
Imoro warned that drivers who increase fares on their own initiative are acting outside the law and engaging in unfair practices.
“If anybody on their own decides to raise the fare, they are violating the law. It is the duty of law enforcement to take action against such practices. As a union, we do not support this behaviour; it amounts to cheating,” he stated.
He also encouraged passengers to take a firm stand by refusing to patronise vehicles that charge above the approved rates.
“Passengers must resist paying more than the approved fare. If you refuse to board a vehicle charging beyond the regulated rate, operators will be compelled to comply with the law,” he added.
The caution follows growing complaints from commuters in several urban areas, where drivers are alleged to be imposing unauthorised fare increases, renewing concerns about enforcement and discipline within the public transport sector.
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