GPRTU Disassociates Itself from Unlawful Delivery Fares

Date: January 15, 2026 | Source: Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has issued a strong statement distancing itself from allegations that its members are engaging in the exploitation of passengers through the charging of unauthorized fares. This development comes amidst reports of public delivery shortages and rising concerns over transport pricing. In a detailed interview with Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Samuel Amoah, the Deputy Industrial and Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, clarified the union’s position, emphasizing strict adherence to legal fare structures and the integrity of their transport operations. This article explores the background of the dispute, the union’s defense, and practical advice for commuters navigating the current transport landscape.

Key Points

Background

The controversy surrounding transport fares in Ghana has intensified recently following comments by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu. The Minister had accused certain transport operators of creating an artificial vehicle shortage to inflate fares, a practice that undermines the public transport system and exploits commuters.

In response to these accusations, the GPRTU has moved quickly to protect its reputation and operational standards. The union’s response is crucial, as it is one of the largest and most influential transport associations in the country. The allegations suggested that drivers were intentionally abandoning official routes and stations to operate on the roadside, where they could charge arbitrary rates. This practice not only violates transport regulations but also poses safety risks for passengers who are left stranded and vulnerable.

Analysis

The Union’s Defense

Samuel Amoah’s statements provide a clear distinction between union-sanctioned operations and the activities of independent operators. By stating that “these issues happening at the roadside… involve vehicles that do not belong to the union,” GPRTU is drawing a line between regulated transport and the informal “trotro” or roadside pickup sector. This distinction is vital for maintaining public trust. The union operates under a framework that requires adherence to specific routes, payment of levies, and compliance with fare regulations set by the Transport Regulatory Authority.

Operational Challenges

The mention of “floating vehicles” highlights a systemic issue in urban transport: the difficulty in regulating non-affiliated drivers. While GPRTU members are subject to tracking and monitoring, independent drivers often operate outside these systems. The union’s assertion that they do not direct members to flout laws suggests that if such incidents occur, they are isolated violations rather than institutional policy. However, the presence of these violations damages the collective reputation of the transport sector.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety

GPRTU’s commitment to enforcing legal fares is not just about pricing; it is deeply tied to passenger safety. Drivers operating from designated stations are required to follow safety protocols, whereas roadside pickups often lack oversight. The union’s emphasis on using stations is a pedagogical approach to educating the public on the correlation between regulated transport and personal safety.

Practical Advice for Commuters

To avoid falling victim to unlawful delivery fares and unauthorized transport operators, commuters should adhere to the following guidelines provided by the GPRTU and transport safety experts:

1. Use Designated Transport Stations

Always board vehicles from recognized GPRTU terminals or designated bus stops. These stations are monitored, and drivers operating from them are accountable to the union and regulatory bodies.

2. Verify Fare Rates

Familiarize yourself with the standard transport fares for your route. If a driver demands a price significantly higher than the standard rate, it is likely unauthorized. You have the right to refuse and report such charges.

3. Report Unlawful Practices

If you encounter a driver charging illegal fares or operating a “floating vehicle” engaging in exploitation, report the incident to the GPRTU task force or local transport authorities. Providing details such as vehicle registration numbers can aid in enforcement.

4. Prioritize Safety Over Convenience

While roadside pickups may seem convenient, they carry higher risks. Stick to the safety of the station environment, especially during late hours or in isolated areas.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the GPRTU?

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is a trade union organization in Ghana representing workers in the road transport sector. It is responsible for regulating fares, ensuring safety standards, and advocating for the rights of transport workers and passengers.

Why are some drivers charging unauthorized fares?

According to GPRTU, unauthorized fare hikes are primarily conducted by “floating vehicles”—drivers not affiliated with the union or regulatory bodies. These drivers operate outside official stations to exploit passengers, particularly during times of high demand or perceived shortages.

How can I identify a GPRTU-affiliated vehicle?

GPRTU-affiliated vehicles typically operate from designated transport terminals and display specific union identification. They follow approved routes and adhere to standard fare charts. Boarding from a recognized station is the best way to ensure you are using a unionized vehicle.

What is the GPRTU doing to stop illegal fares?

The union has established a task force to patrol roads and monitor driver behavior. They are conducting internal conferences to strengthen enforcement and have vowed to arrest and sanction members found engaging in illegal fare practices.

What should I do if a driver overcharges me?

Commuters are advised to refuse the ride if the fare is exorbitant and report the driver to the GPRTU task force or relevant transport authorities. It is also helpful to note the vehicle’s license plate number for reporting purposes.

Conclusion

The GPRTU’s disassociation from unlawful delivery fares is a decisive move to restore confidence in Ghana’s public transport system. By clarifying that unauthorized fare exploitation is the work of unaffiliated operators and not union policy, the GPRTU is taking steps to protect both its members’ reputation and the commuting public. The deployment of a task force signals a new era of strict enforcement, aiming to curb the exploitation of passengers. For commuters, the message is clear: prioritize safety and legality by utilizing designated transport stations and reporting unauthorized practices.