Commuters in Kumasi decry rising ‘short-short’ trend ahead of transport fare reduction

Transport fares are expected to drop by at least 15% next week. However, some commercial drivers in Kumasi face scrutiny for a practice called “short-short.”

This practice involves dropping passengers off midway and charging extra to continue. Commuters are concerned because they end up paying more for shorter trips.

“Short-short” is common among ‘Waawaa’ transport operators on routes like Tech, Santasi, Ahodwo, and Airport roundabout. Some drivers admit to this practice due to high fuel costs and spare parts prices.

One driver explained that a gallon of fuel costs 60 cedis. A full journey would cost about 62 cedis in fuel alone. Without short-short trips, they risk losing all their money on fuel.

Another driver stated they will continue the practice despite fare reductions. They believe if fares decrease further, short-short will become even more common.

Commuters argue that this practice is unfair and exploitative. They feel it undermines the government's efforts to reduce transport costs.

One passenger noted that evening fares from Ejisu are often inflated from 5 cedis to 10 cedis. Another mentioned spending about Gh20 for a return trip when it should be less.

Passengers have observed that drivers load only when there are many people around. When fewer passengers are present, they go directly to Kejetia Adum without making stops.

Kumasi commuters hope for better communication and stricter regulations in the transport sector. They want to ensure they benefit from the expected fare drop.

Some are urging the government to improve public transport options to reduce exploitation in the system.