The Minister of Transport, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, has described a closed-door meeting with private transport operators as productive, as government steps up efforts to resolve the worsening transport challenges in Accra and other parts of the country.
The meeting comes amid persistent complaints from commuters about the shortage of commercial vehicles, despite earlier assurances that the introduction of new buses would ease the situation.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, January 19, after the meeting, the minister said discussions with the transport unions were extensive and focused on restoring order and efficiency in the transport sector.
“I must say that it was a very elaborate and fruitful deliberation we had with our unions, and I believe that when we put these measures into practice, we will see some sanity in the transport system,” he stated.
According to the minister, drivers raised concerns about traders occupying transport terminals and major roads, a situation he said significantly reduces vehicle turnaround time and worsens the transport crisis.
“If a vehicle would have made four trips a day, they are now forced to do just two. The drivers believe that local authorities, through the MMDCEs, must help sanitise the streets by removing traders who are not supposed to be at these locations, to ensure free movement of vehicles and pedestrians,” he explained.
The minister’s engagement with the transport operators followed observations by JoyNews across various parts of Accra, which showed many commuters stranded as they waited for commercial vehicles.
The ongoing situation, affecting Accra and several other regions, continues to frustrate commuters who struggle daily to secure transport to work, school, and other destinations.
Meanwhile, private transport operators in Accra, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), have agreed to establish a joint task force to help address the persistent transport challenges facing commuters in the capital.
