By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Transport Union (GTU) has urged the government, through the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, to establish a Special Fare Adjustment Committee responsible for reviewing and approving transport fare adjustments on a regular basis.
In a resolution submitted to the ministry, the union stressed the need for periodic fare reviews that reflect prevailing market conditions, particularly fluctuations in diesel prices and the rising costs of vehicle maintenance.
The GTU further proposed the introduction of an automatic adjustment mechanism that would trigger fare reviews whenever diesel prices increase or decrease by 20 percent or more.
According to the union, the pump price of diesel has risen by D33.37 per litre since November 2021, while vehicle maintenance costs have doubled due to higher prices of spare parts, lubricants, and mechanical services.
“As the primary breadwinners of their families, transport workers face increasing financial hardship, with their daily income unable to adequately cover the rising cost of living. This situation undermines their welfare, reduces household stability, and threatens the sustainability of the transport sector as a whole,” the union stated.
The union also urged the government to introduce a zonal fare structure based on specific distance ranges—such as 0–10 km, 11–25 km, and 26–50 km—to simplify fare determination, minimize disputes, and promote fairness in pricing.
Additionally, the GTU recommended that the government clearly identify the official departure and destination points for commercial passenger vehicles. It observed that the absence of defined routes often compels passengers to pay multiple fares for a single journey.
“Commercial vehicles must operate strictly between designated points. GTU and police shall monitor compliance,” the Union emphasized.
The GTU further proposed the digitalization of road transport fare collection systems to enhance transparency and accountability in revenue management, while reducing the risks associated with handling cash.