The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has expressed its intention to increase transport fares by 60% in response to the introduction of the Emission Levy Bill in January 2024. This new legislation mandates that all owners of gasoline and diesel vehicles pay an annual levy of 100 cedis, as part of the government’s efforts to encourage the use of green energy and support carbon offset programs and climate-positive initiatives.
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In reaction, the GPRTU submitted a petition to the Speaker of Parliament, requesting a review of the Emission Levy Bill. The Union’s PR officer, Abbas Imoro, in an interview with Citi FM, outlined the financial challenges the union is currently facing and voiced concerns over the additional tax burden. Imoro detailed the existing emission charges and how they add up, leading to significant expenses for drivers. He warned that if the parliament does not reconsider the bill, the union will resort to implementing a minimum 60% hike in transport fares.