The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has indicated that transport fares may soon be reviewed upward as fuel prices are projected to rise in the next pricing window.
The expected adjustment comes ahead of the second fuel pricing window scheduled to take effect on Monday, March 16.
Industry analysts predict that pump prices could increase nationwide, a development likely to place additional pressure on commercial transport operators.
Current industry figures show that the indicative price floor for petrol has risen to GH¢11.57 per litre, up from GH¢10.46 recorded between March 1 and 15.
Diesel has also experienced a sharp increase, moving from GH¢11.42 to GH¢14.35 per litre, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has climbed from GH¢9.38 to GH¢10.67 per kilogramme.
These changes represent increases of GH¢1.11 for petrol, GH¢2.93 for diesel and GH¢1.29 for LPG within the same month. Transport operators say such increases significantly affect their operational costs, particularly as other vehicle-related expenses remain high.
The Industrial Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Abass Imoro, noted that transport operators are already under financial pressure due to rising costs associated with maintaining their vehicles.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Sunday, March 15, he said the union had previously restrained some drivers who attempted to increase fares independently.
“We work for profit, and for some time now fares have remained unchanged. Some drivers tried to increase prices, but we intervened to stop them. That shows they are looking for adjustments,” he explained.
Mr Imoro further pointed out that the cost of spare parts, lubricants and other essential maintenance items continues to rise.
He added that although the union does not rush to adjust fares, any significant increase in fuel prices will likely lead to a review. “If the price of fuel goes up, then naturally everyone should expect a change in lorry fares,” he stated.