Business News of Tuesday, 1 February 2005

Source: Kapital Radio

GPRTU Calls For Increase In Transport Fares

The Ghana Private Roads Transport Union GPRTU of TUC has called for upward review of transport fares to enable transport owners break even.

According to the principal industrial Relations officer of the union Mr. Issah Kaleepha, the upward adjustment of transport fares have become necessary due to the continuous increase in spare parts, lubricants and other maintenance cost of vehicles. Speaking in an interview with Kapital Radio, Mr. Kaleeph noted that the union is aware that some commercial drivers have started charging their own fares and advised them to refrain from such moves. He urged the various stakeholders in the transport industry to take a critical look at the situation to avert chaos in the sector.

He advised drivers to exercise restraints for the union to enter into negotiations with the government to come out with realistic fares. Mr. Kaleepha said the GPRTU is aware of the activities of some recalcitrant drivers who terminate their journey mid way to cheat passengers. He said this is mostly due for the drivers to break even.