Where is GPRTU?

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has long been seen as a key player in regulating the activities of commercial drivers and ensuring fair treatment of passengers.

However, it seems their presence and authority have faded, leaving trotro drivers and their mates free to engage in practices that exploit Ghanaians.

Why has the GPRTU stayed aloof and allowed such blatant extortion to persist?

One of the primary concerns is the disregard for the transport fares set by the GPRTU.

Trotro drivers and their mates have developed the disturbing habit of adhering to the approved fares in the morning, but hiking prices in the evening.

For instance, a passenger who pays GH¢5 in the morning to a particular destination may be asked to pay GH¢10 or even more in the evening.

This inconsistency not only strains the wallets of passengers but also creates a sense of mistrust towards the transport system.

Beyond the fare hikes, some drivers and their mates employ strategies to maximise their profits at the expense of passengers. A glaring example of this is how they manipulate destinations.

Vehicles meant to transport passengers to Abuakwa, a longer-distance route, instead load passengers to shorter distances along the same route.

Every short distance comes with its fare, meaning passengers who intend to travel to Abuakwa end up paying more by completing the journey in multiple segments.

This tactic is nothing short of stealing from passengers.

Such practices are unethical and unfair to passengers, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet.

While some drivers and mates might argue that fuel price hikes and other economic factors necessitate these increases, the lack of transparency and exploitation of passengers in this manner cannot be justified.

The GPRTU, as the regulatory body, has a responsibility to intervene and ensure sanity within the transport sector. It is time for the GPRTU to step up and reclaim its authority.

They must work to enforce standardised fares and monitor drivers to ensure compliance.

Passengers also have a role to play by reporting cases of overcharging and unfair treatment.

If immediate action is not taken, the trust between drivers and passengers will continue to erode, leaving the nation’s transportation system in disarray.

The question remains: where is the GPRTU, and why are they silent in the face of such exploitation? It is high time they fulfilled their mandate and brought relief to the countless Ghanaians who depend on public transport daily.

Richmond Quaye,
Tutor, Vicande School,
Asuoyeboah, Kumasi.