Commuters face transport delays at Accra Central Market 

Commuters and transport operators around the Accra Central Market have expressed concern over delays in accessing public transport during peak periods, attributing the situation partly to heavy traffic congestion and encroachment around some roads and loading areas.

A Ghana News Agency (GNA) observation at the Accra Central Market, CMB, Tudu and Rawlings Park showed increased vehicular and pedestrian activity around key transport points, particularly during busy periods.

Mr Christian Annan, a bookman at the CMB Lorry Station, attributed some of the congestion to encroachment on roads and pavements by traders and hawkers.

Mr Annan said the situation affected the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, making it difficult for drivers to access and leave some areas around the market.

According to him, the use of pavements and parts of the road by traders and hawkers also reduced the space available for vehicles and pedestrians.

At the Rawlings Park, Nii Okan Lantey, a bookman responsible for loading vehicles, said traffic congestion affected the turnaround time of commercial vehicles.

Mr Lantey explained that when vehicles became stuck in traffic for extended periods, they took longer to return to the station after completing their trips.

This, he said, could result in fewer vehicles being immediately available to transport passengers during peak periods, leading to longer waiting times.

The GNA observed passengers waiting at transport loading points around Tudu and Rawlings Park, with movement within the market area also affected by the volume of vehicles, traders and pedestrians.

Some commuters said delays in securing vehicles, particularly during peak periods, affected the time they spent returning home after work and shopping.

The situation has renewed concerns about the need for improved traffic management and enforcement around major commercial and transport areas in the Central Business District.

GNA