The rapid rise of tricycles, locally known as “Pragya”, has transformed urban transport in Ghana, offering affordable rides and creating employment opportunities for thousands of young people. With drivers earning between 300 to 500 cedis daily, Pragya has become a lifeline for the unemployed.
However, this success is causing friction within the transport sector. Traditional taxi drivers are raising concerns over stiff competition, safety issues, and the lack of regulation, calling for government intervention and even the removal of Pragya services in certain areas.
To understand the growing tensions, The High Street Journal spoke with some Accra-based taxi drivers, who shared their frustrations and fears about the future of the taxi business.
Ismael Larbi, a 43-year-old taxi driver operates from Dome to Madina routes. He’s been in the business for 15 years, according to him, business has taken a nose-dive due to the influx of “pragya” transport at the Dome market where he operates.
“It’s been tough. Before Pragya came in, I could make between 400 to 500 cedis on a good day. Now, I’m lucky if I hit 250. Passengers prefer Pragya because it’s cheaper, but they forget it’s not as safe. We pay taxes, licenses, and follow regulations, pragya drivers don’t. It’s unfair competition.” He lamented.
“I’ve seen accidents where these tricycles flip over because they’re not built for the city roads. They often overload with passengers, and most drivers don’t have proper training. It’s risky, but people still use them because of the price.” He chipped in.
Most drivers are of the conviction that there needs to be proper regulation. Either the government bans Pragya in certain areas or ensures they follow the same rules as taxis.
For Osei Bonsu popularly known as Bombey, who has been doing taxi business for 2 decades, he may consider a change in profession because a new line of transport service is taking over the town.
“It’s been brutal. I used to have steady customers, but now most of them use Pragya. I barely make enough to cover fuel and maintenance. Sometimes, I sit for hours without a single ride. Yes, I understand it’s helping the youth with jobs, and it’s affordable for passengers, but there has to be a balance, we also need to be in business. Right now, there’s none.” He mentioned.
“They should regulate the routes. Let taxis handle the city centers and main roads, and leave Pragya for the inner communities where taxis don’t usually go. Also, ensure Pragya drivers have proper licenses and safety checks.” He added.
Some passengers who spoke to The High Street Journal, explained their preference to the Pragya instead of the taxi is the efficiency and cost. Which taxis don’t have to offer, according some passengers the taxis are beneficial when they have loads of goods to move with, other than that there is no urgency.
While Pragya has undoubtedly provided a much-needed employment boost, especially for the youth, the growing tension between tricycle operators and taxi drivers highlights the need for balanced regulation.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union-GPRTU can consider introducing designated routes for tricycles and taxis, enforcing safety standards and licensing for Pragya drivers, encouraging co-existence through policies that support both transport modes.
Without intervention, the situation risks escalating into a transport turf war, pitting two groups of hard-working Ghanaians against each other in a battle for survival.
