The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has endorsed the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana’s decision to increase public transport fares nationwide by 20 percent, effective Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah, described the adjustment as reasonable, citing sharp increases in fuel and petroleum product prices in recent pricing windows.

He warned that continuing to charge old fares could render commercial transport operations unsustainable.

Speaking to Citi News, Amoah noted, “Transport operators have been quite magnanimous with all of us. At this time when fuel prices are set to go up again, one could imagine that their operations could become unsustainable if they continue to charge the very old fares.”

He explained that operators had previously reduced fares when fuel prices dropped, and with prices rising again, it was only fair to allow them to adjust.

However, Amoah emphasised the need for transparency; “It would become a disservice to the GPRTU and other transport operators if we insist they stick with the old fares. I find the adjustment reasonable, except that we would need to again ask them the basis for the 20%.”

Amoah suggested developing a scientific system to calculate fares based on cost per passenger per kilometre, which he believes would eliminate confusion and disputes.

While he expressed a preference for a 15 percent increment, he acknowledged that operators may have factored in other rising costs such as insurance, spare parts, tyres, batteries, and engine oil.

He also pointed out that several long-distance bus services had already adjusted their fares, making it impractical for GPRTU members to maintain old rates.

The new fares will apply to all categories of public transport services, including intra-city trotro operations, inter-city buses, and shared taxis nationwide.

SA