A lorry terminal in Asante Mampong remains empty today as drivers protesting a reduction in transport fares have withdrawn their services.
Drivers operating on the Mampong to Kumasi route have parked their vehicles in protest, leaving the terminal deserted. They say they are unwilling to implement the recent directive to reduce fares despite a drop in fuel prices.
When the Happy Kaseɛbɔ team arrived at the terminal, the station master and other management officials declined to speak. However, some drivers who spoke on condition of anonymity admitted that although fuel prices have dropped, the cost of spare parts remains high. They insist that no 36 Kilometer journey in the country costs less than GHC 20.
They also revealed that they attempted to comply with the fare reduction for three days but claim the revenue was unsustainable. They are now appealing to authorities to allow them to revert to the old fare of GHC 20.
Meanwhile, other drivers who continue to operate have adopted a different strategy. They charge the old fare to Mampong, where passengers must alight and board another vehicle—for an additional fee—before continuing to Kumasi.
Some frustrated passengers voiced their disappointment, calling on authorities to address the issues.
