Relief for Commuters as Transport Operators Suspend Planned Fare Hike
transport operators have officially suspended a proposed 20% increase in public transport fares that was scheduled to take effect today, Friday, August 8, 2025.
Ghanaian commuters can breathe a sigh of relief as transport operators have officially suspended a proposed 20% increase in public transport fares that was scheduled to take effect today, Friday, August 8, 2025. The decision follows a high-level meeting with the Ministry of Transport on August 6, where stakeholders agreed that the fare adjustment lacked sufficient consultation and consensus.
In a joint statement signed by Emmanuel Nii Ankrah, National Vice-Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), and Emmanuel Ohene Yeboah, General Secretary of the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), operators confirmed that the existing 15% fare reduction, introduced on May 24, 2025, will remain in force. “Transport operators have therefore agreed to maintain the implementation of the 15 per cent reduction in public transport fares,” the statement read, urging both operators and the public to comply.
The GRTCC had earlier announced the fare increase on August 5, citing rising operational costs. These included:
A GH₵1 per litre fuel levy, representing an 8% increase in fuel costs.
Persistent deplorable road conditions, which have driven up maintenance expenses.
No corresponding drop in the cost of spare parts and services, despite the earlier fare reduction.
The GPRTU distanced itself from the fare hike, stating it was not part of the decision-making process. It emphasized that any future fare reviews must be collectively agreed upon by all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) strongly opposed the proposed hike, calling it “unjustified and ill-timed.” COPEC urged transport unions to reconsider, highlighting the economic strain already burdening Ghanaian households.
The Ministry of Transport has reiterated the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement in any future fare adjustments. For now, passengers can expect continued relief at the terminals, even as broader conversations about sustainable transport funding continue.
