The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is contemplating a substantial 60% hike in transport fares in 2024 following the implementation of the Emission Levy Bill slated for January 2024.

Abass Imoro, the spokesperson for GPRTU, disclosed this in an interview with JoyNews. The Emission Levy Bill, sanctioned by Parliament, imposes an annual fee of 100 cedis on all owners of petrol and diesel cars, set to commence from January 2024.

The government’s intent behind this levy is to promote the use of environmentally friendly energy sources for vehicle power, aligning with its commitment to climate-positive actions and carbon offset initiatives.

Mr. Imoro emphasized that the union is already grappling with existing taxes, and introducing another tax would be unfavorable. The union has formally communicated its concerns by writing to the Speaker of Parliament, urging the consideration of a review of the Emission Levy Bill.

He stated, “In the letter, we indicated that if nothing is done about it, we will increase lorry fare by not less than 60%.” This proposed adjustment aims to assist drivers in coping with the economic challenges arising from the new tax.

Previously, the Minority in Parliament opposed the passage of the Emissions Levy Bill, criticizing it as poorly conceived. Referring to the levy as a ‘wusie tax,’ they argued that taxing commercial vehicles, private vehicles, ambulances, commercial motorbikes, and tricycles would exacerbate the already challenging economic situation.

In defense of the bill, Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh highlighted the global shift away from internal combustion vehicles, asserting that the new levy is a step toward embracing the era of electric vehicles.