Transport unions have put on hold their planned 30% increase in transport fares following discussions with the Ministry of Transport over rising fuel prices and the cost of operations.

The decision was reached after a closed-door meeting between government officials and transport operators ahead of the next petroleum product pricing window on Friday.

The unions had earlier announced plans to increase fares, arguing that higher fuel prices and other operating costs were making it difficult for commercial drivers to sustain their businesses.

Speaking after the meeting, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, said the government assured the unions it was working to address concerns over fuel prices.

“The meeting was about the proposed transport fare increment before the increment of petroleum products and other components that we use to run our businesses. We explained things to the ministry, and they also gave us their word,” he said.

Amoah said the unions urged the government to implement measures that would help reduce fuel prices and ease the financial burden on transport operators.

“Our proposal was for the government to try to see to it that fuel prices will come down, and they told us that they have heard us and are working to ensure fuel prices will drop,” he added.

He said the unions agreed to suspend the planned fare adjustment for now but warned that another increase in fuel prices could force them back to the negotiating table.

“So there was a long deliberation, but we finally agreed that we would hold off on the increase, but then our own investigation proved that we will likely see another fuel price increase in the next pricing window.

“If it happens that the fuel price goes up again, we will still approach them because if it goes up again, it will be difficult for the drivers to contain the pressure.”