Transport fares remain unchanged
Accra, Feb. 20, 2012
The recent reduction in fuel prices meant to cushion the financial burden on Ghanaians may not be realised after all.
This is because fuel prices at the pumps have been reduced by up to 40 pesewas. The marginal reduction, however, is not likely to affect transport fares as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) have maintained their stance not to bring down fares.
Transport fares, which were early this year increased by about 15 percent, were in reaction to the removal of subsidies on petroleum products which led to a 15 per cent increase on the products in the country.
The removal of subsidies prompted reactions from the Ghana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) and some civic and social institutions.
The GTUC who had planned a nationwide demonstration called it off after deliberations with government after both parties reached an agreement to reduce fuel prices to benefit the ordinary person who was faced with the astronomical increases in transport fares and other economic activities.
Although this has led to the marginal reduction of 20 per cent on the initial 15 per cent increase, some passengers whom e.business news spoke to say the reduction has not reflected in transport fare charges.
While some drivers at the Tema Station lorry park in Accra say the reduction has not reflected at the pumps, others think the reduction of up to 40 pesewas does not warrant any reduction in transport fares.
The TUC’s fight for a reduction in fuel prices may have been achieved, but how beneficial is this to the ordinary Ghanaian. Officials of the union declined comment as they are preparing to publicly speak on the issue.
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