GPRTU Eyes Cashless Transport System to Curb Robbery Attacks on Drivers
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has announced plans to introduce a cashless payment system across its transport stations as part of efforts to enhance operational efficiency and protect commercial drivers from armed robbery attacks.
According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, Samuel Amoah, the proposed system will enable passengers to pay fares electronically and receive receipts, reducing the need for drivers and their mates to handle large amounts of cash during daily operations.
Mr. Amoah explained that under the new arrangement, fare payments would be processed through a centralised system managed by station authorities, who would subsequently disburse the proceeds to drivers.
He noted that the initiative forms part of the union’s broader digitalisation agenda and is intended to improve transparency, accountability and security within the public transport sector.
“Once the money is paid through the system, records will be generated and receipts issued, making transactions more transparent and secure,” he said.
According to the GPRTU, the move is expected to significantly reduce the risks faced by commercial drivers, many of whom have become targets of armed robbery attacks while returning home with daily sales.
The union believes eliminating cash transactions on a large scale will make drivers less vulnerable to criminal attacks and contribute to a safer working environment.
The announcement comes amid growing discussions about the adoption of digital payment solutions within Ghana’s transport industry, particularly following a recent viral social media video involving a dispute over a mobile money fare payment.
While mobile money payments remain optional in commercial vehicles, the GPRTU says the proposed cashless platform will provide a standardised payment framework that benefits both passengers and transport operators.
Beyond enhancing security, the union expects the system to improve record-keeping, reduce revenue leakages and support the ongoing digitisation of Ghana’s transport sector.
Mr. Amoah disclosed that work is currently underway to develop the platform and finalise implementation modalities in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
The GPRTU expressed confidence that the initiative will modernise fare collection, improve customer convenience and strengthen confidence in public transport services across the country.
