Compiled by the Information Services Department, Atwima Kwanwoma District.
Residents of the Atwima Kwanwoma District have expressed mixed reactions to government’s decision to deploy one hundred additional Metro Mass Transit buses, with plans to introduce two hundred more, as part of measures to regulate transport fare hikes and bring relief to commuters across the country.
The initiative, according to government, is expected to serve as a major intervention in the transport sector by providing affordable, reliable and efficient public transportation while helping to check arbitrary fare increases often imposed by some commercial drivers.
A section of residents who spoke to the Information Services Department welcomed the move and described it as a timely intervention, especially at a time many Ghanaians continue to struggle with the rising cost of living and increasing transportation expenses.
According to them, the deployment of more Metro Mass buses could create competition in the transport sector and compel private operators to reduce excessive fares. They noted that many passengers, particularly workers, students and traders, have suffered from sudden fare increments by some commercial drivers, making the government’s intervention necessary.
However, some respondents were skeptical about the effectiveness of the policy in addressing transport challenges within major cities such as Kumasi, Accra and Takoradi.
They argued that the real challenge commuters face in urban centers is not necessarily the absence of buses, but the conduct of some commercial drivers popularly known as “trotro” drivers, who often charge exorbitant fares, fail to complete direct routes, and in some instances offload passengers midway only to charge additional fares before they reach their final destinations.
According to them, deploying large Metro Mass buses alone may not adequately solve these inner-city transportation problems, as some roads and densely populated communities may be difficult for the large buses to access regularly.
They therefore called on government to introduce stricter regulations and stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure that commercial drivers adhere to approved transport fares and designated routes. They further proposed that government should consider procuring enough mini buses to operate alongside the bigger Metro Mass buses in order to effectively serve commuters within the cities and towns.
Another group of respondents shared the view that the deployment of the buses would be more beneficial to passengers travelling long distances rather than those commuting within city centers.
They explained that while fares within municipalities may not be as burdensome compared to intercity travel, passengers travelling from one region to another often face high fares, delays, overcrowding and discomfort before reaching their destinations.
According to them, the introduction of one hundred buses, with two hundred more expected soon, would significantly reduce pressure on long-distance travel routes and provide much-needed relief to travellers.
Some respondents further noted that if properly managed, the expansion of Metro Mass Transit services could restore confidence in public transport and reduce the exploitation of passengers by some private transport operators.
Others suggested that government should adopt a balanced approach by addressing both short-distance and long-distance transport needs. They recommended the procurement of mini buses for urban transport operations while the larger buses focus on intercity and long-distance routes.
In general, a considerable number of respondents commended government for the initiative and described it as a positive step toward improving public transportation in the country.
They, however, urged authorities to ensure effective supervision, regular maintenance, proper scheduling and discipline among Metro Mass Transit staff to guarantee efficient service delivery.
They emphasized that without strong monitoring systems, punctuality, professionalism and accountability, the intended benefits of the intervention may not be fully realized.
Residents concluded by appealing to government to continue engaging the public and transport unions in order to implement lasting reforms that would make transportation affordable, accessible and convenient for all citizens.
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