By Emmanuel Gamson
Takoradi, Aug. 18, GNA – The Western Regional Branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has announced a 15 per cent increase in transport fares, effective Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
The Union said the upward adjustment was necessitated by periodic increases in fuel and other petroleum product prices, which were affecting the operational costs of its members.
Mr Joseph Cudjoe, Western Regional GPRTU Chairman, who confirmed this to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Takoradi, said the increase in commercial transport fares was intended to help drivers manage rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs, as well as other operational challenges.
He said high fuel prices were causing tension among members, some of whom had planned to embark on a sit-down strike to drum home their grievances.
“The regional leadership decided to take action and reverse an initial 15 per cent reduction which was made last year, so that they can increase the transport fares now to calm everyone down,” he said.
Mr Cudjoe said the new adjustments would remain in force until new directives were issued by the national leadership of the GPRTU.
“We are not trying to make the government unpopular, but this decision is necessary to help our members to remain in business,” he said.
He urged the government to take steps to reverse the upward trend in fuel prices to help reduce the burden on both drivers and commuters.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Emmanuel Gamson
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