Public transport users across the country will pay more for their daily commute beginning Tuesday, June 2, 2026, following the announcement of a 20 percent increase in transport fares by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana.
The fare adjustment, which affects intra-city trotro services, inter-city transport, and shared taxi operations nationwide, was announced in a joint press release issued on Friday, May 29, 2026.
According to the transport unions, the decision was reached after extensive consultations with members and key stakeholders in response to the increasing operational costs facing transport operators across the country.
The transport operators attributed the fare increase primarily to the persistent high cost of fuel and the significant rise in the prices of vehicle spare parts and maintenance materials.
They explained that over the past several months, transport operators have been grappling with elevated fuel prices, while the costs of critical vehicle components such as tyres, engine oil, batteries, and other spare parts have continued to soar.
The unions noted that these rising expenses have placed enormous pressure on drivers and vehicle owners, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain their vehicles and sustain their businesses.
“These rising operational costs have made it difficult for drivers and vehicle owners to maintain vehicles and remain in business,” the statement emphasized.
The new fares will officially take effect on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, and will be applicable across all public transport services covered by the unions.
To ensure transparency and public awareness, the GPRTU and Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana indicated that updated fare charts will be displayed at lorry stations nationwide before the implementation date.
Passengers have been advised to verify the approved fare rates at their respective stations and pay only the officially sanctioned amounts.
The transport unions acknowledged that any increase in transport fares places an additional burden on commuters, especially amid current economic challenges.
However, they stressed that the decision was not taken lightly and came only after exploring other alternatives.
The unions appealed to the public to exercise understanding and cooperate with transport operators as the new fares are implemented.
“We understand the burden any fare adjustment places on commuters. This decision was taken only after all other options were exhausted,” the statement said.
The GPRTU and its partners also issued a stern warning to drivers and transport mates against charging fares beyond the approved 20 percent increment.
They disclosed that a joint task force, working in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, will be deployed to monitor compliance at major transport terminals and stations across the country.
Operators found violating the approved fare structure by overcharging passengers are expected to face sanctions.
While announcing the fare adjustment, the transport operators renewed their call on government to implement measures aimed at reducing the financial burden on the transport sector.
They specifically urged authorities to review taxes imposed on vehicle spare parts and take steps to stabilize fuel prices.
According to the unions, such interventions would not only benefit transport operators but also help reduce the cost burden on the general public.
The GPRTU of TUC and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana reaffirmed their commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transport services despite the challenges confronting the industry.
The announcement is expected to have significant implications for commuters, businesses, and households that depend heavily on public transportation as part of their daily activities.
By 1960news.com
