Passengers Raise Concerns Over Fare Increases and Short-Shorts on Lapaz–Accra Route

Passengers commuting between Lapaz and Accra have reported significant challenges during the Christmas period, citing increased transport fares and 'short-shorts' loading practices that have resulted in long waiting times at trotro stations.

 

According to commuters, some trotro drivers and conductors (trotro mates) have introduced fare charges beyond the approved rates, while others now terminate trips prematurely at Kwame Nkrumah Circle instead of completing the full Lapaz–Accra route.

 

Passengers say trotros are charging GH¢5.50 from Lapaz to Circle and an additional GH¢3.50 from Circle to Accra, bringing the total cost to GH¢9—an increase from the approved GH¢6 fare for the full journey. In some cases, passengers are not allowed to alight at Circle, despite being charged in segments.

 

The situation is reported to worsen in the evenings, with fares rising to GH¢5 from Accra to Circle and GH¢5.50 from Circle to Lapaz. Some passengers also alleged that some drivers demand up to GH¢10 for a direct trip from Circle to Lapaz.

 

Passengers have further accused some station masters of permitting these practices to continue, claiming that revenue collection is being prioritised over commuter welfare.

 

Speaking to Citi News on Monday, December 15, 2025, a passenger, Maame Serwaa, said she had been waiting at the Lapaz–Accra station since 7:00 a.m., but buses arriving at the station insisted on ending their trips at Circle.

 

 

 

Another commuter, Nyamekye, also shared that he experienced similar delays, waiting over an hour as multiple buses declined to complete the full route.

 

Beyond the inconvenience, commuters say the situation has affected productivity, with many workers arriving late to their destinations due to extended waiting times and increased transport costs during the festive season.

 

Source & credit: CitiNews-- CitiNEWS