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Commercial drivers across Ghana are expressing growing frustration and concern over the rising cost of operating their vehicles, warning that increasing fuel prices and other expenses are placing severe pressure on their livelihoods.
According to the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the indicative price floor for petrol has risen to GH¢11.57 per litre, up from GH¢10.46 recorded between March 1 and 15, while diesel has jumped from GH¢11.42 to GH¢14.35 per litre. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has also climbed from GH¢9.38 to GH¢10.67 per kilogramme, representing increases of GH¢1.11 for petrol, GH¢2.93 for diesel, and GH¢1.29 for LPG within the same month.
Speaking with the media, GPRTU Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoh stated that the continuous rise in fuel prices is making it challenging for drivers to sustain their businesses.
“Drivers are not happy about what we are seeing at the moment. Anytime fuel prices go high, drivers are going to run at a loss, because it’s a major component of our business,” he said.
Amoh explained that fuel costs represent a significant portion of commercial transport operators’ expenses, and any increase immediately affects their profitability.
The challenges confronting drivers go beyond fuel prices, with the cost of spare parts, insurance premiums, lubricants, and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority charges also rising.
“The cost of spare parts has risen sharply, and insurance premiums have increased, further compounding the financial pressure on drivers,” Amoh added.
He urged stakeholders to address these issues to prevent a decline in the transport sector.
