The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has defended its stance on maintaining current transport fares despite a slight decrease in fuel prices, citing multiple cost factors that influence fare adjustments beyond just fuel.

The Deputy Public Relations Officer of GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, explained that fare determination involves several operational costs, including spare parts, insurance, and regulatory charges from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

“Before December, we had intentions of increasing transport fares due to the rising cost of spare parts, the upward trajectory of fuel prices at the time, and the high costs of lubricants, insurance, and DVLA taxes,” Amoah stated.

However, he noted that the union held off on fare increments, anticipating an improvement in economic conditions based on certain assurances they had received.

Amoah acknowledged the recent marginal drop in fuel prices but insisted that the reduction is not significant enough to warrant a decrease in transport fares.

“Yes, we have observed a slight decline in fuel prices, but it has not reached a level that justifies a reduction in fares,” he asserted.

He emphasized that fuel prices are only one component in fare adjustments, with other operational costs playing a crucial role.

“We don’t base our fare decisions solely on fuel prices,” Amoah said. “Other factors, such as the cost of spare parts, lubricants, taxes, and other petroleum-related expenses, also influence fare determinations.”

Outlining the GPRTU’s procedure for reviewing fares, Amoah revealed that the union follows a structured approach before making any changes.

“We operate within a 10% threshold. We assess the difference in fuel prices over time and also conduct market surveys to evaluate the movement of other cost components,” he explained.

“Based on the findings, we then decide whether fares should be adjusted.”

He further noted that when transport fares were last increased, fuel prices stood at approximately ¢12 per litre, indicating that the current reduction has not yet met the criteria for a fare decrease.

He made these assertions while speaking on Accra-based Joy FM on Tuesday, March 18.