Former Anyaa–Sowutuom MP, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, has urged the government to prioritise the repair and maintenance of existing commercial vehicles rather than focusing solely on acquiring new ones, saying this approach could ease the pressure on Ghana’s public transport system.
Speaking on GHToday with Lily Mohammed, Dr. Kissi highlighted that poorly maintained buses and taxis contribute significantly to the sector’s challenges.
“There have been videos of vehicles that have not been repaired,” he said, stressing that attention should be redirected toward sustaining the current fleet.
“I think that instead of going to look for new cars or vehicles,” he added, “there should be a stronger emphasis on repairs, maintenance, and sustainability within the transport system.”
Dr. Kissi also noted that recent fuel and fare policies, including the “one Ghana per fuel gallon” directive, may be compounding difficulties for drivers, particularly as they are restricted from raising fares.
READ: “Do we even have a Transport Minister?” – Adomako Kissi slams leadership silence
“I don’t know how the one Ghana per fuel gallon has contributed to this transport situation,” he said.
“Maybe the drivers are struggling because, as it is, they’ve also been stopped from increasing their prices, and maybe it is not becoming profitable or doable when they look at their operational expenses.”
He further highlighted that transport operators face multiple financial obligations, including levies paid to unions such as the GPRTU, which add to their operating costs.
“There are other fees they have to pay,” he said, noting that the cumulative financial burden could explain the growing tension between drivers and commuters over fares.
Dr. Kissi’s comments underscore the need for a more sustainable approach to Ghana’s public transport challenges, balancing financial policies with vehicle upkeep and operational support for drivers.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Barbara Yeboah
