The Volta Regional Chapter of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has distanced itself from reports of a 20 per cent increase in lorry fares, describing the development as unauthorised and warning drivers and transport groups against implementing it.
According to the union, no official approval has been granted for any fare adjustment, and the public should disregard claims circulating on social media and at some transport stations.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, the Public Relations Officer of the Volta Regional GPRTU, Mr Awilo Attito, explained that the union has not completed the necessary consultations required to determine any fare changes.
He noted that the GPRTU operates a structured engagement process involving transport owners, drivers and relevant stakeholders before any review of fares is announced.
Mr Attito stressed that any fare adjustment must be based on a thorough assessment of operational costs, including fuel prices, spare parts and vehicle maintenance, and must be communicated through official channels to avoid confusion.
He cautioned drivers against enforcing the alleged 20 per cent increase and urged them to report individuals or groups attempting to impose unauthorised charges in the region.
The union also warned other transport associations and informal driver groups against acting independently on fare increments without engaging the GPRTU and the Ministry of Transport, saying such actions could disrupt the transport system and erode public trust.
Mr Attito further appealed to commuters to remain calm and report any instances of overcharging or illegal fare enforcement to the appropriate authorities, including the police or GPRTU offices.
He disclosed that regional leadership will soon convene a meeting to assess operational challenges facing transport operators and explore sustainable solutions that balance the interests of both drivers and passengers.
In the meantime, the GPRTU said it would intensify monitoring at lorry stations across the Volta Region and take disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, against members found guilty of enforcing unapproved fares.
The union also called on the Ministry of Transport and the National Road Safety Authority to address broader structural challenges such as rising fuel costs and poor road conditions, which continue to put pressure on transport operators.
Mr Attito emphasized that dialogue and consultation remain the most effective way to resolve fare-related disputes and urged stakeholders to avoid misinformation that could create unnecessary tension in the transport sector.
