Commercial drivers across Ghana say the rising cost of running their vehicles is becoming unbearable, with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) warning that increasing fuel prices and other operating expenses are putting serious pressure on drivers’ livelihoods.
Industry data shows that the indicative price floor for petrol has increased to GH¢11.57 per litre, up from GH¢10.46 recorded between March 1 and 15.
Diesel prices have also risen sharply, moving from GH¢11.42 to GH¢14.35 per litre, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has gone up from GH¢9.38 to GH¢10.67 per kilogramme.
Overall, within the same month, petrol has increased by GH¢1.11, diesel by GH¢2.93, and LPG by GH¢1.29.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, March 16, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union, Samuel Amoh, said the continuous rise in fuel prices is making it increasingly difficult for drivers to keep their businesses running.
“Drivers are not happy about what we are seeing at the moment. Because you know very well that anytime fuel prices go high, then it means that drivers are going to run at a loss, because it’s one of the major components that we use to do our business,” he stated.
According to him, fuel costs represent a significant portion of the expenses incurred by commercial transport operators, and any increase immediately affects their profitability.
However, he explained that the challenges confronting drivers go beyond fuel prices alone.
He noted that the cost of spare parts has also risen sharply in recent months, placing an additional burden on vehicle owners and operators.
The Deputy PRO added that insurance premiums have also increased, further compounding the financial pressure on drivers.
“About a month or so ago, insurance policies, that is the third-party premium, were also increased. It’s also another cost that we are incurring,” he explained.
In addition, he said the rising prices of lubricants and increased charges from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority are further contributing to the growing operational costs faced by drivers.
“lubricant and other DVLA taxes have all gone up. So if it happens that fuel prices also go high, then it means that our personal costs are going to be increased. So basically, drivers are not that pleased about what we are seeing at the moment,” he added.
