Tuesday, 02 June

GA/R: 37 taxi station suspends operation over fuel price hike

News
drivers operating from the 37 Taxi station in the Greater Accra Region have suspended services on some routes.

Commercial drivers operating from the 37 Taxi  station in the Greater Accra Region have reportedly suspended services on some routes following the recent increase in fuel prices without a corresponding adjustment in transport fares.

The affected routes include 37 to Labone and 37 to Osu, with several drivers refusing to operate until new transport fares are announced by the government and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) and Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU).

Speaking to passengers and commuters at the station, one driver expressed frustration over the rising cost of doing business, citing not only fuel price increases but also the high cost of vehicle spare parts.

According to the driver, the current transport fares are no longer sufficient to cover operational expenses, making it difficult for drivers to maintain their vehicles and support their families.

"Fuel prices keep going up, spare parts are expensive, and yet transport fares remain the same. It is becoming very difficult for us to cope," he said.

As a result, many drivers have parked their vehicles and are waiting for authorities and transport unions to announce revised fares that reflect current economic conditions.

Despite the suspension of operations by some drivers, others who are still working have reportedly increased fares on their own. Passengers travelling on the affected routes are currently being charged GHS7 per trip, leading to complaints from some commuters.

Although some passengers reported paying GHS7 for trips on the affected routes, drivers insist that no official fare increase has been imposed on commuters.

The situation has left many passengers stranded and searching for alternative means of transportation, while drivers continue to call for an urgent review of transport fares to match the rising cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance.

Transport operators are hopeful that discussions between stakeholders will lead to a fare adjustment that addresses their concerns and allows services to resume fully.

Source: classfmonline.com/Rebecca kekeli Nyame