The New Juaben South Municipal Assembly in the Eastern Region has directed drivers and operators of commercial passenger vehicles, including pragyia and trotro services, to immediately reverse any unapproved increases in transport fares or face sanctions.
The directive was contained in a press release issued by the Assembly on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, following reports that some transport operators in Koforidua and surrounding communities had increased their fares without the approval of the relevant authorities.
According to the Assembly, it had come to its attention that some operators of pragyia and other public transport services had increased fares being charged to passengers.
The Assembly described the reported fare increases as contrary to the general arrangement reached between the government and transport unions nationwide, which requires operators to refrain from arbitrary increases in lorry fares.
The New Juaben South Municipal Assembly said it had consulted transport unions on the matter and was urging all transport operators within the municipality to comply with the existing arrangement.
It therefore called on drivers and other transport operators to desist from charging passengers fares that have not been officially approved.
The Assembly stressed that operators are expected to adhere to the agreed fare structure and avoid imposing additional charges on commuters without the necessary approval.
The Assembly further warned that any transport operator found charging unapproved fares would be sanctioned.
According to the statement, the enforcement was to take effect from Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
The directive is expected to affect operators providing commercial passenger transport services across Koforidua and other parts of the New Juaben South Municipality.
The Assembly’s action comes amid concerns over the impact of transport fares on commuters, particularly workers, traders, students and other residents who rely heavily on public transport for their daily activities.
The Municipal Assembly has consequently urged drivers, pragyia riders and other transport operators to comply with the directive and ensure that passengers are not charged fares outside the approved arrangement.
The Assembly also cautioned operators against taking unilateral decisions on fares, stressing the need for transport unions and relevant authorities to be consulted before any fare adjustments are implemented.
The New Juaben South Municipal Assembly said it would continue to work with transport unions to ensure compliance and protect commuters from arbitrary fare increases.
Transport operators and commuters in Koforidua and its environs are therefore expected to adhere to the approved fare arrangements as the Assembly moves to enforce the directive.
By 1960news.com
