Commercial drivers operating on the Sokode-Ho route have been cautioned against increasing passenger fares, with the approved GH¢6 fare still in effect.
The Assembly Member for the Sokode-Gbogame Electoral Area, Mr Mac-Billions Bansah Dickson, issued the warning following reports that some drivers had begun charging passengers GH¢8 for the journey.
Mr Bansah told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on September 9 that the reported increase was not authorised and urged transport operators to maintain the existing fare until an official adjustment was announced.
His comments followed a joint statement issued by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) on September 8, stating that no decision had been taken to increase public transport fares.
He said ongoing discussions between the government and transport operators, including negotiations surrounding fuel-related interventions, should not be interpreted as approval for drivers to independently adjust fares.
According to Mr Bansah, the additional GH¢2 being charged by some drivers could impose a considerable burden on commuters, particularly when the extra cost was accumulated over several journeys.
He urged drivers engaging in the practice to immediately revert to the approved GH¢6 fare and await any official communication from the relevant authorities.
The Assembly Member also appealed to passengers to insist on paying the approved fare and report persistent cases of overcharging to the appropriate transport authorities.
While acknowledging the important role commercial drivers play in facilitating transportation within the municipality, Mr Bansah urged them to respect the established fare-setting process.
He stressed that any adjustment to transport fares must be officially sanctioned and announced before drivers begin charging passengers more.
Mr Bansah said adherence to the approved fare would help prevent unnecessary financial pressure on commuters already dealing with economic challenges.
