Ghana’s Transport Minister, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, says a closed-door meeting with private transport operators has been “fruitful,” as the government seeks solutions to worsening transport difficulties in Accra and other parts of the country.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, the minister said discussions with transport unions were detailed and focused on restoring order to the sector amid growing complaints from commuters about a shortage of commercial vehicles.
He said drivers raised concerns about traders occupying transport terminals and major roads, which they claim is slowing operations and reducing the number of daily trips vehicles can make.
According to the minister, vehicles that could normally make four trips a day are sometimes limited to two, worsening congestion and long waiting times for passengers.
Mr. Bukari called on local authorities to clear unauthorized traders from transport hubs and roadways to improve traffic flow and turnaround times.
The meeting followed reports by JoyNews of commuters stranded across parts of Accra, despite earlier assurances that the introduction of new buses would ease the pressure.
Private transport operators, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union, have now agreed to form a joint task force to help address the persistent challenges facing commuters in the capital.
