Accra: The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has alerted passengers to brace for potential increases in transport fares if fuel prices continue to surge at the pumps.
According to Ghana Web, the Union's Industrial Relations Officer, Abass Imoro, emphasized that fuel costs are just one of several factors that influence fare pricing.
Imoro explained that the prices of spare parts, lubricants, and other materials necessary for vehicle maintenance also significantly impact transport charges. He highlighted that transport operators are currently feeling the pinch of escalating operational costs. 'We work for profit, and for some time now prices have remained the same. Some of our members even tried to increase fares, but we stopped them. This shows that they are under pressure and looking for a change,' Imoro stated.
He further clarified that fare adjustments are closely tied to movements in fuel prices. 'We do not immediately impose a new fare, but if the price of fuel changes and it is upwards, everybody should expect a change in lorry fare,' he added. Imoro also pointed out that despite discussions about the high prices of spare parts, lubricants, and other essential materials, these costs have not decreased.
In the meantime, some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have initiated adjustments to fuel prices at the pumps starting Monday, March 16, 2026. Industry data indicates that the price floor for petrol has risen to GHS11.57 per litre from GHS10.46 per litre recorded between March 1 and 15. Similarly, diesel's price floor has jumped to GHS14.35 per litre from GHS11.42 per litre, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has increased to GHS10.67 per kilogramme from GHS9.38 per kilogramme.
These substantial increases in fuel prices are expected to amplify calls for fare adjustments, as transport operators grapple with the challenge of maintaining affordable services for passengers amidst rising costs.