Commuters across the country should brace themselves for higher travel costs as public transport fares are set to increase by 20% effective Friday, August 8, 2025.
The announcement was made by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) in partnership with various transport unions. The fare adjustment aligns with the Administrative Arrangement on Public Transport Fares that guides pricing mechanisms for public transportation in Ghana.
According to a statement jointly signed by Emmanuel Ohene-Yeboah, General Secretary, and Alhaji Tanko, Acting National Chairman of the GRTCC, the upward review became necessary due to mounting economic pressures that continue to strain commercial transport operations.
The GRTCC outlined three major reasons behind the decision:
- Lack of Cost Reductions:
Despite a 15% fare reduction in May 2025 aimed at providing relief to commuters, transport operators report that the cost of spare parts, tyres, lubricants, and other goods and services has not decreased accordingly. The continued high prices have left many struggling to maintain vehicles. - GH¢1.00 Fuel Levy:
The newly introduced GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy has triggered an 8% increase in fuel prices, pushing up daily operational costs for drivers and transport companies. - Worsening Road Conditions:
Poor and deteriorating road networks across many parts of the country have significantly increased vehicle maintenance costs, adding another layer of financial burden for transport operators.
The 20% fare increase will affect all categories of public transport, including:
- Intra-city “trotros”
- Shared taxis
- Long-distance intercity buses
- Haulage and cargo transport
The GRTCC has instructed all commercial transport companies to comply with the revised fares and display the updated price lists visibly at all loading terminals for public awareness.
The Council has appealed to passengers, transport owners, and the general public to cooperate peacefully with the changes and help ensure a smooth implementation of the revised fare structure.
“This increase, though unfortunate, is necessary to keep transport services running,” the Council emphasized.
The last major adjustment occurred in May 2025, when fares were reduced following a brief drop in fuel prices and government interventions. However, the current economic climate, coupled with rising fuel costs and poor infrastructure, has compelled a reversal.
Transport unions argue that without this revision, the sustainability of commercial transport operations would be at risk, potentially affecting mobility and daily commuting for millions of Ghanaians.
