Petroleum tanker drivers begin three-day sit-down strike over poor BOST parking yard

Members of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union have begun a three-day sit-down strike to protest the poor condition of the yard where they park their trucks near the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST) Kumasi Depot.

The drivers say the facility has deteriorated significantly and accused BOST of failing to undertake the necessary rehabilitation works despite repeated complaints and engagements.

They are particularly concerned about the condition of the yard during periods of rainfall, saying the situation poses safety risks and makes their work increasingly difficult.

In addition to the state of the facility, the tanker drivers have raised concerns about persistent shortages recorded when they offload petroleum products at the depot.

According to the union, the shortages are linked to faults in the machinery and equipment used to discharge fuel from the tankers.

The drivers said they have repeatedly engaged BOST officials over the concerns but have yet to see the necessary interventions.

The strike has raised fears of disruptions to the transportation and distribution of petroleum products, particularly if the action continues beyond the three-day period.

A prolonged disruption could potentially affect fuel supplies and lead to shortages in parts of the country, prompting calls for urgent intervention to resolve the dispute.

Chairman of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, Dominic Brenya, said the drivers would remain on strike until their concerns are addressed.

He maintained that the action was intended to compel the relevant authorities to address the challenges affecting the drivers and ensure safer and more efficient operations at the depot.