Drivers Warn Against Unauthorized Fare Hikes as Transport Unions Await Official Review.
Transport unions in the Eastern Region have cautioned commercial drivers against imposing unauthorized transport fare increases, stressing that no union has approved new fares despite the recent rise in fuel prices.
Speaking in an interview on July 27, 2026, the Welfare Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) in New Juaben, Alhaji Muniru Alhassan, who also heads the Koforidua–Asamkese–Kade branch and chairs the New Juaben Lorry Fares Management Committee for all drivers’ unions, clarified that no transport union has been mandated to implement new fares.
He explained that union leaders are currently engaging relevant stakeholders and expect to announce revised fares later this week after consultations are concluded.
Also speaking to the media, the Ag. Chairman of the Heritage Transport Union, Seidu Kolateh, disclosed that transport operators held discussions with the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Agyei Awatey, on the same day.
According to him, the Minister assured the unions that all stakeholders would be adequately consulted before any new transport fares are approved.
Mr. Kolateh, however, expressed concern that some commercial drivers had already begun charging unapproved fares following the meeting.
He described the development as unacceptable and urged drivers to comply with the existing fare structure until an official announcement is made, emphasizing that adherence to the regulations would help maintain cordial relations with passengers.
A driver attributed the unauthorized fare increases to the recent fuel price hikes, arguing that they were rounding fares to the nearest convenient amount due to rising operational costs.
One driver appealed to the government to take steps to reduce fuel prices to ease the burden on transport operators.
Meanwhile, a passenger, who identified herself as a trader, appealed to the government to intervene swiftly to prevent arbitrary fare increases.
She noted that any increase in transport fares would significantly affect her business and the cost of living for many Ghanaians.
Oyerepa TV/FM Correspondent George Botha reports that transport operators and commuters are awaiting the outcome of ongoing consultations between transport unions and relevant stakeholders on the proposed adjustment of transport fares.
