Public Transport fares to increase by 20% nationwide from June 2
Commuters across Ghana will face higher transportation costs beginning Tuesday, June 2, 2026, after commercial transport operators announced a 20 percent increase in fares nationwide.
The adjustment, announced by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport unions on Friday, May 29, will affect intra-city trotro services, inter-city travel and shared taxi operations throughout the country.
Transport operators explained that the fare review was necessitated by the continued rise in fuel prices and the increasing cost of maintaining vehicles, including the purchase of tyres, batteries, engine oil and other spare parts.
Speaking to MyJoyOnline on Saturday, May 30, the National Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, said operators had delayed increasing fares in anticipation of improved economic conditions.
According to him, transport unions initially exercised restraint following assurances that prices of key commodities would decline.
“This increase should have been implemented earlier, but we decided to wait because there were expectations that prices would come down. However, current conditions make it difficult for operators to continue without a fare adjustment. Drivers have been raising serious concerns about the situation,” he said.
Mr. Amoah disclosed that transport unions had held several meetings with government representatives regarding the issue, but were repeatedly encouraged to postpone the increment.
“We have had numerous discussions on this matter, but we were asked to hold on because of the expectations surrounding economic improvements,” he added.
Rising Cost of Operations
The transport unions indicated that escalating fuel prices and maintenance expenses have significantly increased the cost of running commercial vehicles.
They noted that the prices of essential items such as tyres, lubricants, batteries and spare parts have risen sharply in recent months, placing considerable financial pressure on operators.
According to the unions, the new fares are intended to help offset these operational costs and ensure the sustainability of transport services.
Measures to Enforce Compliance
The GPRTU announced that revised fare charts will be displayed at lorry parks and transport terminals nationwide before the new rates take effect.
Passengers have been encouraged to consult the approved fare schedules and avoid paying charges beyond the officially sanctioned rates.
The unions also warned drivers, conductors and station officials against imposing unauthorized fare increases.
To enforce compliance, monitoring teams will work in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service at major transport stations across the country.
“Our task force, together with the Police MTTD, will monitor implementation at key terminals. Anyone found charging above the approved fares will be sanctioned,” the union stated.
Appeal to the Public
While acknowledging the financial difficulties facing many Ghanaians, transport operators admitted that the increase would place an additional burden on commuters.
However, they maintained that the decision was unavoidable after exhausting other options available to them.
The unions appealed to passengers for understanding and cooperation as the revised fares come into effect.
Call for Policy Support
Transport operators also urged the government to take steps to reduce the cost of transportation by reviewing taxes and import duties on vehicle spare parts and introducing measures to stabilize fuel prices.
They argued that such interventions would lower operating expenses and provide long-term relief for both transport providers and commuters.
The unions reaffirmed their commitment to delivering safe, reliable and affordable transport services despite the economic challenges confronting the sector.
The fare increase is expected to generate widespread discussion due to its potential impact on household budgets, business operations and the cost of goods and services across the country.
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