The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has announced a 20% increase in public transport fares, effective Friday, August 8, 2025. This decision follows rising operational costs and deteriorating road conditions across the country.
The announcement, made in a statement signed by General Secretary Emmanuel Ohene-Yeboah and Acting National Chairman Alhaji Tanko, comes just months after a 15% fare reduction in May 2025, which was implemented at the government’s request.
“This decision should not come as a surprise to the public,” Mr. Ohene-Yeboah said. “In May, we reduced fares, hoping for economic relief, but the situation has only worsened.”
The GRTCC cited three major reasons behind the latest fare hike:
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No reduction in spare parts and service costs, despite earlier fare cuts.
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The GH¢1.00 per litre Energy Sector Levy, introduced on July 16, 2025, has led to an 8% rise in fuel prices.
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Nationwide poor road conditions, which have significantly increased vehicle maintenance costs.
The Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025, which introduced the fuel levy, was aimed at boosting power supply but has added strain on transport operators.
The 20% fare increase will apply across all sectors:
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Shared taxis
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Intra-city trotro services
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Intercity long-distance buses
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Haulage transport
The GRTCC has instructed all commercial operators to comply strictly and to display the new fare lists at terminals for public awareness.
“We appeal to commuters, operators, and the public to cooperate for a smooth transition,” the Council urged.
The fare reduction in May, under the Administrative Arrangement on Public Transport Fares, had sparked optimism. However, rising costs and deteriorating infrastructure have reversed those gains.
This development once again highlights the fragile balance between affordability for commuters and sustainability for operators. As the fare increment takes effect, commuters will feel the pinch, while operators hope to stay afloat in a turbulent economy.
