Traders turning roads into markets causes transport delays – GPRTU

The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Alhaji Abass Imoro, has expressed concern over the increasing conversion of roads and pedestrian walkways into market spaces by traders.

Speaking on the Happy Morning Show with Kwadwo Sefah-Danquah on Tuesday, April 8, Alhaji Abass pointed out that although designated roads and pedestrian paths exist, many of them have been converted into makeshift markets where people buy and sell, creating severe traffic congestion.

He dismissed claims of a shortage of commercial buses in Accra, explaining that the real issue lies in the difficulty drivers face in navigating the city.

He noted that areas which should take just two minutes to access can now take up to twenty minutes due to the congestion caused by street hawking and unauthorized trading on the roads.

This, he explained, has led to delays in passengers getting vehicles at lorry stations, a situation that was not common in the past.

According to him, once the traders are removed from the roads and pedestrian walkways are restored for their intended purpose, the situation will improve.

He emphasized that there are enough vehicles to transport commuters, but human activities on the roads are creating unnecessary delays and safety hazards.

He added that in many instances, pedestrians end up colliding with vehicles due to the congested environment, yet drivers are unfairly blamed for such accidents.

Alhaji Abass also lamented the lack of response to repeated concerns raised by the GPRTU.