The National Sand and Stone and Tipper Drivers Association (NSSTD) has kicked against a proposed 70% increase in sand and gravel loading charges by NASSTTU Sand Winners, describing the adjustment as excessive and calling for an immediate review.
The association said the proposed increase was not arrived at through the stakeholder consultation process it expected, insisting that any adjustment to loading charges should first be subjected to discussions involving all relevant parties.
According to the NSSTD, a stakeholder meeting was previously held with representatives of the Ghana Police Service, National Security and the Minerals Commission in attendance.
The association said the meeting was intended to foster cooperation and mutual understanding among stakeholders, adding that a verbal understanding was reached that proposed changes would be discussed through a round-table process.
It therefore appealed to the relevant authorities to intervene promptly to prevent the disagreement from escalating.
Beyond the disputed charges, the NSSTD also raised concerns over alleged incidents of assault, intimidation and harassment involving some of its members.
The association claimed that some tipper truck drivers had allegedly been assaulted and harassed by officers of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) while undertaking what it described as lawful duties.
It called on the Minerals Commission to investigate the allegations and conduct a comprehensive audit of the pricing structure being imposed by NASSTTU Sand Winners.
The association argued that such a review is necessary to determine whether the charges being imposed on truck operators and customers were justified, lawful and reasonable.
The NSSTD urged the authorities to suspend and review the proposed 70% increase in sand and gravel loading charges pending the outcome of proper stakeholder consultations.
It also called for an investigation into allegations of assault, intimidation and harassment of tipper truck drivers, as well as an audit of the pricing structure adopted by NASSTTU Sand Winners.
The association further demanded that all charges imposed on truck drivers and customers be transparent, lawful and reasonable.
It said appropriate measures should also be put in place to prevent what it described as unlawful harassment and extortion of tipper truck drivers.
The NSSTD maintained that all stakeholders should return to the round-table discussion process to find an amicable and fair resolution to the dispute.
The association warned that continued disagreements over sand and gravel charges could have wider implications for customers and the construction industry, particularly if increased transportation and material-loading costs are passed on to consumers.
It stressed that its objective is not to create conflict but to protect the interests of its members while ensuring fairness for customers and end users.
“Dialogue, transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law remain the best means of resolving this matter,” the association said.
The NSSTD therefore urged the relevant authorities to act swiftly in the interest of tipper truck drivers, customers, the public and the construction industry.
By 1960news.com
