Commuters have been granted temporary relief after transport unions suspended their planned 30 percent increase in transport fares following a meeting with the Ministry of Transport.
The decision comes just days before the next petroleum products pricing window on Friday, with union leaders opting to give government more time to address concerns over rising fuel prices.
The proposed fare hike had been driven by increasing operational costs, which transport operators say are placing enormous pressure on their businesses.
Government promises action
Speaking after the closed door meeting, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union, Samuel Amoah, said the discussions focused on the impact of rising fuel prices and other operating expenses on commercial drivers.
"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." - Samuel Amoah
According to him, the unions urged government to take steps to reduce fuel prices rather than allow another increase that would eventually force operators to pass the cost on to passengers.
"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 said.
Fuel prices remain the key concern
Despite agreeing to suspend the planned fare adjustment, the unions remain cautious about what lies ahead.
Samuel Amoah said their own assessment points to another possible increase in fuel prices during the next pricing window, a development that could quickly revive discussions over transport fares.
"So there was a long deliberation, but we finally agreed that we will hold off on the increase.
"If it happens that the fuel price goes up again, we will still approach them because it will be difficult for the drivers to contain the pressure." - Samuel Amoah
The outcome means existing transport fares remain in place for now, although operators have made it clear that any further increase in fuel prices could reopen negotiations with government.
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