In a formal press release dated August 5, 2025, the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has officially announced a 20% increase in public transport fares across the country.
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This directive is set to take effect from Friday, August 8, 2025, and will affect all categories of road transport services.
This latest fare adjustment comes in response to mounting economic pressures faced by commercial transport operators, including rising fuel costs, expensive spare parts, and worsening road conditions.
Reasons for the Transport Fare Adjustment
According to the GRTCC, the fare hike was necessitated by three major factors:
1. Unmatched Reduction in Spare Parts and Services
Despite a 15% reduction in transport fares on May 21, 2025, prices of spare parts, goods, and services have not dropped to match the fare cut. This has left transport operators struggling with operational costs.
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2. Increase in Fuel Costs Due to New Levy
The recent introduction of a GH₵1.00 per liter fuel levy has caused an estimated 8% spike in fuel prices. Transport providers are facing financial pressure from the sharp rise in fuel expenditure, which is critical to their operations.
3. Deplorable Road Conditions
The GRTCC also highlighted the deteriorating nature of Ghana’s roads, which has led to frequent vehicle breakdowns and rising maintenance costs. This has made it increasingly difficult for operators to sustain affordable services.
Fares Cover All Major Transport Categories
The 20% fare increase will apply to the following modes of transport nationwide:
- Shared Taxis
- Intra-City Transport (Trotro)
- Inter-City (Long Distance) Services
- Haulage & Goods Transport
This move ensures that all forms of public and commercial transportation are brought under the same operational cost bracket to maintain consistency and fairness in implementation.
GRTCC Urges Compliance and Transparency
In the press release signed by Emmanuel Ohene-Yeboah (General Secretary) and Alhaji Tanko (Ag. National Chairman), the GRTCC urged all commercial transport operators and companies to:
- Comply with the new fares.
- Display updated fare lists at their loading terminals.
- Help inform passengers to reduce fare disputes.
“We further request all operators, commuters, and the general public to cooperate for the successful implementation of the new fares,” the Council stated.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
The fare increment has sparked widespread reactions among Ghanaians. Some commuters have expressed disappointment, citing the rising cost of living. On the other hand, many drivers have welcomed the move, arguing that their businesses were becoming unsustainable.
A driver at the Tema Station shared:
“For months now, fuel prices and vehicle parts have gone up. We’ve been running at a loss. This fare increase is a relief.”
However, a commuter at Madina Bus Terminal voiced concern:
“We are already paying more for food and rent. Another increase in transport fares will stretch us further.”
Call for Infrastructure and Economic Policy Improvements
Experts suggest that while the fare increase may be justified by rising costs, the government must prioritize key interventions to support both transport operators and commuters. These include:
- Fixing deplorable roads to reduce vehicle maintenance.
- Reviewing the new fuel levy to cushion transport businesses.
- Introducing a public transport subsidy for low-income earners.
The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council’s decision to increase fares by 20% is a significant development in the country’s transport sector. While it may alleviate the burden on commercial drivers, it also raises critical questions about affordability for passengers, infrastructure challenges, and the broader economic impact.
As Ghanaians brace for the new fare structure, cooperation among operators, commuters, and policymakers will be essential in ensuring smooth implementation and long-term solutions to Ghana’s transport sector challenges.
