The Roads and Highways Minister, Alhaji Amin Sulemana says the Ministry is working on reducing current fares charged on pontoon that ply the Volta River.
The pontoons are being used as alternatives following the closure of the Adome Bridge for extensive rehabilitation works.
But commercial drivers and commuters who use the pontoon have said that the fares are too expensive.
Speaking to Citi News, Alhaji Sulemana explained that the amount was pegged between GHc11 and GHc20 because “we just want to raise more money to be able to fuel the boats and maintain them.”
He gave the assurance the charges will be reviewed but a mechanism will be put in place to indicate the specific number of passengers on the boat.
He indicated also that passengers will be made to pay “50 pesewas” to help keep record of passengers on board.
This he said if accomplished will help the Ministry reduce cost, adding that they are currently working on it together with the “cost analysis.”
The Adomi Bridge at Atimpoku in the Asuogyaman District of the Eastern Region was on Monday closed down to commuters.
The Ghana Highway Authority in collaboration with the Roads and Highways Ministry subsequently provided pontoons to ferry travellers across the river from Atimpoku to Akrade, where an alternative route has been constructed for light duty vehicles.
By: Efua Idan Osam/citifmonline.com/Ghana