Frustrated commuters in Nungua and surrounding areas are demanding urgent government intervention as commercial drivers continue to defy official fare reduction directives, highlighting what many describe as a regulatory failure within Ghana’s public transport system.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) announced a 15% reduction in fares effective May 24, 2025, following a nationwide drop in fuel prices. But for many daily passengers, the directive has largely remained on paper.
“This is not about fuel alone anymore. It’s about a system that allows drivers to operate above the law,” said Anabel Tekyi, a nurse who was forcefully dropped off mid-route for paying the adjusted fare. “The government and GPRTU must act — this is exploitation.”
Widespread Noncompliance and Commuter Harassment
Numerous residents reported being harassed, abandoned mid-trip, or insulted for attempting to pay the new fare. Some drivers even argued that fuel is only one component of their cost structure, citing stagnant prices for spare parts and maintenance.
“The driver said fuel is not enough to determine fare reductions — that parts prices are still high and owners demand full sales,” Tekyi recounted.
Others echoed similar experiences, with Kenneth Opoku, an engineer, explaining how passengers from Ecobank to Ashaiman were stranded after drivers refused to lower fares.
“When fuel prices go up, drivers raise fares immediately — no union notice needed. But when prices drop and a directive is issued, they ignore it,” Opoku lamented.
Calls for State-Run Alternatives and Stricter Oversight
Residents are now calling for a revival of state-run transport options like Ayalolo buses, arguing that the current system is too reliant on the goodwill of private operators.
“We need Ayalolo buses at every terminal,” one commuter urged. “The union and government must either enforce the rules or provide alternatives.”
Regulatory Breakdown Undermining Public Trust
Despite the GPRTU’s official stance, enforcement remains elusive. Passengers say there is no visible monitoring system, no penalties for offending drivers, and no grievance redress mechanism.
“The reduction doesn’t apply to my route,” a driver reportedly told Emmanuel Mensah, a student, who tried to pay the reduced fare of GHS 6 instead of GHS 6.50.
With fuel prices continuing to decline, many now fear the price benefits are being lost in a broken regulatory environment.
