Africa-Press – Gambia. The Gambia Transport Union (GTU) has responded to recent public concerns over unauthorized fare increases by commercial drivers, pointing to decades-long structural and regulatory deficiencies within the country’s transport sector.
In a statement issued this week, the GTU emphasized that the challenges facing road transport are longstanding and systemic, stemming from years of neglect and a lack of comprehensive policy reforms. The union highlighted a critical shortage of formal infrastructure, rising operational costs, and the absence of a clear legal framework as primary contributors to the current situation.
Key Issues Identified by the GTU:
1. Lack of Designated Commercial Garages
Since The Gambia’s independence in 1965, Brikama remains the only officially designated garage in the country. Elsewhere, drivers operate from informal “pocket garages,” limiting efforts to properly regulate and organize the sector.
2. Absence of Legal and Regulatory Framework
The union noted that there is currently no comprehensive legal structure specifically governing commercial road transport, making enforcement and accountability nearly impossible.
3. Outdated Official Tariff Structure
Current transport tariffs, according to the GTU, do not reflect modern realities. With inflation driving up the cost of fuel, spare parts, and vehicle maintenance, many drivers struggle to sustain operations under the existing fare guidelines.
4. Economic Pressures and Inflation
Transport operators, like all citizens, face the brunt of rising living costs. The GTU stressed that many drivers have families to support and are burdened with increasing personal and professional expenses.
Despite these challenges, the GTU says it remains committed to reforming the sector. In recent years, the union has undertaken several initiatives to improve organization, promote road safety, and push for long-term policy changes.
Reforms and Initiatives Undertaken:
-Deployment of Personnel in the Greater Banjul Area
Over 30 GTU officers, working with regional executives, garage attendants, and security forces, are facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, particularly during peak travel seasons such as Eid.
-Commitment to Road Safety
Road safety remains a top priority. The GTU continues to collaborate with authorities to ensure safe travel conditions and reduce traffic-related incidents.
Policy Advocacy and Government Engagement
The GTU is working closely with the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure to shape key policies. These include:
-The National Transport Policy (2018–2027)-
-The National Road Safety Strategy (2020–2030)
-The ongoing review of the Motor Traffic Act of 1948
-Proposals for the development of designated commercial garages nationwide
While acknowledging the public’s frustration over unauthorized fare hikes, the GTU distanced itself from such actions, describing them as “symptoms of deeper systemic issues.” The union reiterated that it does not condone exploitation and is actively working to resolve the root causes of instability in the sector.
“We are committed to establishing a level playing field for all and ensuring fair, safe, and affordable transportation services in The Gambia. We are also engaged in ongoing discussions with drivers, garage committees, and regional representatives to inform them about issues surrounding road commercial transport in The Gambia, particularly the official fare increment,” GTU said.
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