Fuel Price Hike Puts Ghana’s Transport Sector on Edge — Operators Demand Urgent Government Relief

Transport operators across Ghana are raising serious concerns over the recent increase in fuel prices, warning that the situation is becoming unbearable and could lead to higher transport fares if urgent action is not taken.

Speaking to Samuel Amoah, GPRTU Deputy National PRO on Kessben Maakye today, he noted, although there was a period of declining fuel prices in the past, taxes were not reduced to reflect the drop. Now, with the ongoing tensions in the Middle East pushing global fuel prices upward, he says the impact is being heavily felt locally.

He explained that the current fuel price surge is not only affecting their operations but also adding pressure to other essential components of the transport business. Costs related to insurance and spare parts have also increased significantly, leaving operators with little room to absorb the shocks.

“Fuel prices are the major determinant of transport fares,”he noted, adding that while other factors play a role, fuel remains the most critical.

“If the current trend continues, we may have no option but to adjust fares upward.”

Transport unions say all warning signs are already visible, stressing that failure to address the situation could make it difficult for them to continue operations sustainably.

Despite the challenges, operators acknowledged their previous support for government efforts to stabilize the energy sector, including agreeing to measures aimed at paying off energy sector debts when fuel prices were relatively low.

However, they are now calling on the government to offer immediate relief, particularly by reconsidering or waiving certain levies, such as ghc 1.00 per litre, to ease the burden.

“With prices rising again, we expect the government to step in and cushion us.

Removing some of these taxes will go a long way to help stabilize transport fares,” he appealed.

The transport sector remains a critical part of Ghana’s economy, and stakeholders warn that any sustained disruption could have a ripple effect on the cost of living nationwide.