Ghana cannot continue expanding its road network to combat rising traffic congestion, according to Professor William Ackaah. The Deputy Director of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) stated this critical assessment. He emphasized the need for a strategic shift towards efficient public transport systems.
Professor Ackaah highlighted the inefficient use of Ghana's road space as a primary concern. He noted that private saloon cars carry only 20% of passengers but occupy 60% of road space. In contrast, 'trotros' transport 60% of passengers using just 20% of the road. This imbalance makes continuous road expansion unsustainable and ineffective for urban development.
This perspective fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of rapid urbanization and increasing vehicle ownership. The country's growing economy fuels demand for travel and car purchases. This trend puts immense pressure on existing infrastructure. Previous investments in road widening projects have not solved the core problem of congestion.
“We cannot keep expanding our routes,” Professor Ackaah stated during an interview on Joy FM. He explained that road construction is becoming increasingly expensive. The cost of acquiring land and securing rights of way for expansion projects is prohibitive. This makes the current approach economically unfeasible in the long term.
The implications are significant for urban planning and public finance. Decision-makers must now consider alternative solutions to manage traffic and pollution. Investing in high-capacity public transport, like Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), offers a viable path. This strategy could reduce travel times and environmental impact. It also frees up valuable road space.
Professor Ackaah advocates for systems like BRT, which can carry many passengers in a single vehicle. He explained that one BRT bus carrying fewer than 40 passengers could replace 20 private cars. Each private car typically carries one or two occupants. This shift would drastically reduce the number of vehicles on the road. It would also improve traffic flow.
The current reliance on private vehicles contributes significantly to urban pollution. A more efficient public transport system would help mitigate this environmental challenge. It would also reduce the economic costs associated with traffic jams. These costs include lost productivity and increased fuel consumption.
Ghana's vehicle population continues to grow, increasing the demand for travel. The current low-carrying capacity of individual vehicles exacerbates congestion. This trend makes the existing road expansion strategy obsolete. The country must prioritize moving people efficiently, not just vehicles.
An efficient public transport system would allow for better utilization of limited road space. It would also reduce the need for costly and disruptive road widening projects. This approach aligns with sustainable urban development goals. It offers a long-term solution to Ghana's traffic woes.
The government and urban planners must now evaluate the feasibility of large-scale public transport investments. Such projects require significant capital and careful planning. However, the long-term benefits in terms of economic efficiency and environmental quality are substantial. This strategic shift is crucial for Ghana's future urban mobility.