Commercial transport operators have threatened to increase transport fares by 20 per cent on the Kasoa–Winneba route beginning June 29 if government fails to commence repairs on the deteriorating road.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana expressed concern over the worsening condition of the Kasoa–Winneba Road, describing it as a major challenge for transport operators and commuters.
The groups recalled that during a demonstration held on June 12, they presented government with a two-week ultimatum to undertake repairs on the road.
According to the statement, no significant work has begun since the deadline was issued.
“The road continues to cause vehicle damage, high fuel consumption, and long delays for drivers and passengers,” the statement noted.
The transport operators warned that unless visible action is taken by government, fares on the route will be increased by 20 per cent from June 29.
They explained that the proposed adjustment is intended to offset the rising costs associated with operating on the damaged road, including increased fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance expenses and the use of alternative routes.
“The adjustment is to cover the extra cost of fuel and maintenance from using alternative routes and the damage to vehicles,” the operators stated.
The unions appealed to government and the Ministry of Roads and Highways to intervene urgently and begin repair works to avert the planned fare increase.
They also appealed to commuters for understanding, stressing that the decision is aimed at protecting both transport operators’ livelihoods and their vehicles from further damage.
The statement was jointly signed by GPRTU National Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah; GPRTU Communications Member, Eric Larty Lamptey; Communications Member, Ben Boahen; and National Chairman of the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, Asonaba Nana Wiredu.
The operators maintain that immediate government intervention remains the most effective way to prevent the fare adjustment and address the longstanding concerns over the condition of the Kasoa–Winneba Road.
