The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has raised serious concerns over the rising cost of vehicles, spare parts and exorbitant charges at transport terminals, warning that the situation is putting enormous pressure on transport operators despite the relative stability of Ghana’s economy.
According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, the transport sector plays a crucial role in Ghana’s economic development but continues to face challenges that threaten its operations.
He revealed in Kessben Maakye show in Accra, that engagements with spare parts dealers have exposed difficulties in importing vehicle components, leaving many commercial vehicles grounded at workshops because their owners cannot afford replacement parts.
Samuel Amoah also expressed concern over the increasing financial burden on commercial drivers, warning that allowing drivers to determine fares independently could create serious problems within the transport sector.
He further criticised the management of some transport terminals, alleging that facilities handed over to private operators are now attracting exorbitant charges, placing additional pressure on drivers and transport operators.
This he said most often than not compels many drivers to abandon the terminals leaving more passengers stranded.
The GPRTU Deputy PRO disclosed that the union has appealed to the government to support transport operators with new buses to improve their operations, but the request remains pending before the President.
He questioned why other transport operators, including Metro Mass Transit and Aayalolo BRT have been provided with new buses while the GPRTU continues to struggle with ageing vehicles and expensive spare parts.
Samuel Amoah called for urgent government intervention to address the challenges confronting commercial transport operators, stressing that the sector deserves greater attention because of its significant contribution to Ghana’s economy.
