Techiman drivers calls on government to intervene in spare parts pricing amid fare reductions

Techiman drivers calls on government to intervene in spare parts pricing amid fare reductions

Some commercial drivers in Techiman are calling on the government to engage with spare parts dealers to reduce the prices of vehicle parts and engine oil, following a recent nationwide directive to reduce transport fares by 15%.

The appeal comes in the wake of fare reductions such as Techiman to Kumasi dropping from GHC 50.00 to GHC 45.00, and Techiman to Asuyei decreasing from GHC 7.00 to GHC 6.00. While the drivers have complied with the new fares, they say the high cost of spare parts and maintenance makes it difficult to operate sustainably.

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other commercial transport unions recently issued a stern warning to drivers nationwide, instructing them to strictly comply with the 15% reduction in fares or face sanctions. The unions also urged passengers to report drivers who fail to follow the new pricing to either their offices or the police.

The drivers argue that while fuel prices fluctuate multiple times within a year often with no corresponding fare increases, they are immediately pressured to reduce fares whenever there is a drop in fuel prices, without any consideration for other rising operational costs.

They revealed that although they are not opposed to lowering fares, a balanced approach is needed. “We’ve already made reductions. However, I would urge the government to consider all the factors involved before demanding further cuts. Car owners still expect the same daily returns from us, but the cost of maintaining our vehicles continues to rise. So technically, we are operating at a loss.”

“It’s true that fuel prices have been reduced, but the reality is that the prices of spare parts and engine oil are still increasing. In fact, just yesterday, the cost of spare parts went up. So, if the government expects us to reduce transport fares based solely on fuel prices, then it is not being fair to us, the drivers.

“We are not against reducing transport fares  as we speak, we have already made some reductions. However, I would urge the government to consider all the factors involved before calling for fare reductions. Car owners still expect the same amount of money from us at the end of each day, yet the cost of maintaining the vehicles, including spare parts and engine oil, remains high. So technically, we, the drivers, are running at a loss.” They said.

The situation is compounded by what they describe as a lack of representation and support. ““We are facing many challenges, but unfortunately, we have no one to fight for us. Our leaders are not supporting us, and that is very sad. Fuel prices can increase multiple times in a year without a corresponding increase in transport fares. Yet, the moment fuel prices drop, there is immediate pressure from the public and government for us to reduce fares without taking other expenses into account.” A driver told our reporter.

Source: Elvisanokyenews.net