The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has issued a strong caution to commercial drivers across the country to desist from charging unapproved exorbitant transport fares.
The warning comes amid public outcry over some drivers increasing fares indiscriminately following recent adjustments in tariffs and fuel prices.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Kwadwo Amankwah Foxy on the National Agenda Morning Show on Ashh 101.1 FM in Kumasi, the Deputy National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GPRTU stated that although tariffs have seen an increment, the Union is still in talks with the government on the next line of action.
According to him, no driver or local station has been authorized to impose its own fare increments on passengers.
“We have cautioned all our drivers. Nobody should charge exorbitant fares that have not been approved. Though tariffs have been increased, we are still in talks with government as to what step to take next,” the PRO said.
Addressing growing concerns and accusations from the public that the GPRTU is colluding with the government to punish citizens, the PRO strongly dismissed the claims.
He emphasized that the GPRTU is a non-partisan union and does not align itself with any political party or government to the detriment of Ghanaians.
“We are a non-partisan union. We don’t side with any government. People accusing us of dining with government to punish citizens should stop. We are only complying with directives that will help both citizens and the government,” he stressed.
The Deputy National PRO of GPRTU, Mr. Samuel Amoah,revealed to Kwadwo Amankwah Foxy that the Union is working tirelessly to balance the interests of all parties.
According to him, GPRTU as an organization is working to protect the interest of drivers, citizens and the government at large.
“We as an organization are working to protect the interest of drivers, citizens and the government at large. We will not do anything to put unnecessary burden on the ordinary Ghanaian,” Mr. Amoah added.
He further assured passengers that the Union will always consider the plight of the ordinary Ghanaian before announcing any new fare adjustment and urged the public to report any driver who charges unapproved fares to the nearest GPRTU office.
