Ablekuma Curve Trotro Drivers Protest Over Alleged Increase In Daily Ticket Fees

Story By: Zainab Ali

Commercial transport operations have been disrupted at Ablekuma Curve following a protest by some trotro drivers over an alleged increase in daily ticket fees from GH¢10 to GH¢15.

The drivers are unhappy with the additional GH¢5 charge, which they say is adding to the financial burden of operating commercial vehicles.

Speaking to one of the affected drivers at the scene, he explained that their concerns go beyond the increase itself, pointing to what he described as the manner in which the ticket fees are collected.

According to him, the ticket fee is supposed to be collected only at designated stations. However, he alleged that drivers are charged at various points where passengers gather along their routes, including areas stretching from Pokuase towards Lapaz and other surrounding communities.

He said the situation places an additional financial burden on drivers, particularly those who pick up passengers at multiple points during their journeys.

The driver further explained that the cumulative amount paid in ticket fees along a single route can sometimes exceed the money they make from transporting passengers, making it increasingly difficult for them to cover their operating expenses and earn a living.

He argued that the proposed increase from GH¢10 to GH¢15 would worsen their financial challenges, prompting some drivers to withdraw their services in protest.

The development has affected transport services at Ablekuma Curve, with commuters potentially facing delays and difficulties securing vehicles to their destinations.

It is, however, not yet independently established which specific transport union or authority approved the reported increase, or whether the new charge applies across other transport stations.

The transport union concerned is yet to provide an official explanation regarding the reported increase and the drivers’ allegations about ticket collection at multiple points.

The situation highlights the financial concerns raised by commercial drivers and the need for clarification and engagement between the relevant transport authorities, union representatives and affected drivers.