By: Eddy Boateng.
IN THE WAKE of the government’s directive for a 15% reduction in transport fares effective May 24, 2025, following a significant drop in fuel prices, some commercial drivers have adopted a strategy that effectively circumvents the intended relief for passengers.
The ‘Short-Short’ Tactic:
On major routes such as Dodowa to Accra, drivers are segmenting the journey into shorter trips. For instance, passengers are first taken to Madina, charged a fare, and then required to board another/same vehicle to complete the journey to Accra, incurring an additional fare. This practice results in passengers paying more than the original fare for a direct trip, despite the mandated fare reduction.
A similar pattern has been observed on the Nsawam to Accra route, particularly from Medie to Accra, and this started mid-last year. Drivers charge passengers heading to Accra a fare to Amasaman or Pokuase, and then another fare to Circle or Accra. This has led to instances where passengers/workers without sufficient funds are stranded mid-journey.
Drivers’ Justification:
Some drivers argue that while fuel prices have decreased, other operational costs remain high. Mensah, a trotro driver on the Dodowa–Accra route, stated, “Yes, fuel has dropped, but we still have to pay car owners, unions, and deal with police and breakdowns. The 15% cut is too much.”
Public Reaction:
Commuters have expressed frustration over the tactic. Sandra, a passenger, recounted, “I paid GHC 5 to Madina, then another GHC 6 to Accra. That’s GHC 11, when I used to pay GHC 9 straight.”
Authorities Respond:
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Ministry of Transport have condemned the practice, stating it undermines public trust and violates the spirit of the fare reduction. They urge drivers to adhere to their registered routes and comply with the new fare guidelines.
The Ministry of Transport has also directed the Ghana Police Service to apprehend any driver found charging unapproved fares, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the current fares set by the GPRTU and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC).
Conclusion:
While the fare reduction aims to alleviate the financial burden on commuters, the ‘short-short’ tactic employed by some drivers highlights the challenges in enforcing such policies.
Authorities are urged to intensify monitoring and enforcement to ensure that the intended benefits reach the commuting public.
Source: Nationaltyme.com
