GPRTU’s recent announcement of a 30% increase in fares met with backlash from Ghanaians.
Samuel Amoah, a member of the GPRTU’s media staff, has denied reports that transportation costs will increase by 30% starting on Monday, September 19.
GPRTU claims that the transport fares were not adjusted by their union, he added that the 30% increment would only cause “confusion and problems” if it were imposed, and further asked that the drivers retain the prior pricing.
We are all aware that one of the major reasons for this fare adjustment is due to fuel cost which has increased.
Considering that there is no regulation on what the private companies can charge, we hope GPRTU will continue to provide affordable public transport service so our brothers and sisters can have access to go about their day without breaking their budget.
How do we trust this?
I’d like to use this opportunity to inform all of your readers especially the drivers, that the lorry fare has not raised by 30% and will not begin today.
When news broke that the GPRTU had raised public transportation fare prices by as much as 30%, many people weren’t happy. GPRTU, however, asserts this adjustment is necessary to make up for inflation and wage increases.
How do we know they’re being truthful?
For one thing, they’ve consistently done a good job handling transport fares and improving safety standards on the major thorough fares.
What if the data is false?
Is this true? one person asked on Facebook. GPRTU, the new system put into place by the union that fares will increases that they say will go into effect starting September.
They estimate that fares will go up by as much as 30%. But many are wondering if this is true, and if it is – whether it’s such a drastic measure worth our support.
The need for competition
Higher fares not only lead to public dissatisfaction, but it also restricts access for those living outside Accra. I can imagine that buses are one of the cheapest modes of transportation around Accra.
If rates go up, more people will resort to using taxis or private cars which is more or less expensive and less sustainable.
Currently, there aren’t any other competitors to challenge GPRTU which is putting them in a monopolistic position over the market forcing competition into the industry may drive prices down and provide better services.
Where is the accountability?
Setting the record, the GCDA collaborates with the GPRTU and the GRTCC, the only recognized mandated bodies, to negotiate public transportation fare increases or decreases on behalf of all transport unions, the statement read.
FAQs
How does the government intend to manage the impact?
How does the government intend to manage the impact this change will have on the economy? The government believes that the effect will be limited since people will have time to make adjustments and plan for their budget based on this information.
Is there any room for negotiation in this matter?
Yes, there is room for negotiation, but that would require specific conditions to apply first. What are these conditions? It has not been specified at this time.
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