Taxi driver ‘forced’ by rising fuel cost to cover his fuel gauge intermittently to keep his sanity

The recent hike in fuel prices appears to have moved a number of commercial drivers into finding new ways of dealing with the impact.

The fluctuating prices seem to be taking a psychological toll on drivers, just as it is affecting their pockets.

A 20-year-old man, Emmanuel Fatsawo who has been driving for two years has blinded his fuel gauge to avoid the distraction of seeing the fuel go down.

“You definitely cannot work if the fuel gauge is not covered, because you’ll be distracted by the constant decrease, covering it keeps me focused till I close for the day, then I remove it,”

“Now the fuel price is really up and still people want to pay GH₵7 for a ride, that’s the most annoying bit.”

However, Mr. Fatsawo says he parks his car after a number of rides to check the fuel gauge to avoid completely running out of fuel on the road.

The persistent rise in fuel prices is forcing him to reconsider moving out of the driving business as it constantly drains his pocket.

Speaking with Joy Prime’s Emmanuel Dzivenu, he said he has resorted to only going for short-distance rides to reduce the frequent visits to the fuel station.

He believes short distance rides are more cost effective than long distance rides although he admits the bargaining by some passengers can be disturbing.

“I reject long-distance rides because I don’t want to spend much on fuel,” he said.

Emmanuel appears not to be the only one covering the fuel gauge while on the road, some commercial drivers also do the same.       

In December 2021, when he started driving, petrol was selling at GH₵6.8 per liter but it is currently selling at GH₵13.50 per liter representing a 99% increase in price.

For now, the 20-year-old is looking at saving enough to start another business and get off the road.

Until then, he will continue to temporarily cover his fuel gauge to give him some sanity while driving on the road.