By: Rita Naa Ayeley Armah
As the festive season approaches, a worrying trend is emerging. Trotro drivers and their mates are extorting money from passengers. What used to be a simple fare system is now complicated by unfair price increases, raising concerns about what is right and what the future holds for public transport.
In the past, transport fare hikes were often explained by rising inflation. However, recent data shows that inflation in Ghana dropped to 6.3% in November 2025, down from 9.5% in October. With inflation no longer a reasonable excuse for fare increases, it is time to question what is really behind this troubling trend.
One trotro driver openly said, “Christmas is coming, and this is our opportunity to cash out.” This frank admission raises serious ethical concerns. Passengers are now facing fares that have skyrocketed. An average ride from Accra to Circle has jumped from 3 GHS to between 5 GHS and 10 GHS. Similarly, a ride from Circle to Kasoa, which used to cost 11 GHS, now ranges from 15 GHS to a shocking 25 GHS.
This brings up an important question: how can we complain about inflation when prices go up but stay quiet when they do not go down as costs decrease? This inconsistency not only damages the credibility in transport operators but also places a heavy burden on commuters.
The effects of these fare increases go beyond just inconvenience. School children, pregnant women and elderly passengers who depend on trotros for their daily travel are at risk of being stranded because of inflated prices. What happens if someone only has the regular fare?
Even though this situation causes significant distress for passengers, organizations like the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Trades Union Congress (TUC), and the Ministry of Transport seem to be doing little to address these problems. As extortion becomes more common, we must ask: what steps are being taken to fight this issue? If it continues unchecked, it could lead to even bigger problems.
As we deal with this complicated issue of transportation and fare extortion, it’s important for both authorities and citizens to stand up against these unfair practices. The time for action is now, before things get out of hand. Commuters deserve fair treatment and clear pricing, especially during a season meant for celebration and joy.
