The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has raised significant safety concerns regarding the Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line. This follows a July 30 incident where a passenger train, DMU002, carrying over 150 passengers, collided with six goats on the track.
Frederick Appoh, Chief Executive Officer of GRDA, stated that the incident highlights persistent challenges. These include encroachment, vandalism, and deliberate obstruction of railway operations. The train was travelling at approximately 45 kilometres per hour when it struck the animals.
This situation fits into a broader national context of infrastructure development and public safety. Ghana is investing heavily in its railway network to improve transport and economic connectivity. However, public disregard for railway safety protocols threatens these investments and the operational efficiency of new lines.
Mr. Appoh explained that trains have limited ability to avoid obstacles due to their size, weight, and braking distance. He warned the public against entering restricted railway areas. He noted that a train cannot simply swerve or stop instantly.
Railway authorities have recorded multiple incidents of deliberate obstruction. One case involved an individual remaining seated on the track despite warnings from an approaching train horn. Railway personnel had to physically remove the person to prevent a potential disaster.
Beyond encroachment, the GRDA has documented numerous cases of vandalism and attacks along the railway corridor. This includes more than six incidents of stones being thrown at trains. Additionally, 11 cases involved stones intentionally placed on the tracks.
Such actions could lead to serious accidents, including derailments, especially with the anticipated start of heavier freight services. Freight locomotives are expected to generate approximately 2.25 megawatts of power. This is significantly more than the 750 kilowatts generated by current passenger trains.
Their increased mass, momentum, and braking distance mean they cannot stop suddenly for any obstacle. Mr. Appoh also revealed that newly installed fences along the corridor have been vandalised. This undermines efforts to secure vulnerable sections of the line.
The GRDA has deployed railway security personnel between stations to deter encroachment. These personnel aim to protect the operational corridor. DMU002 will undergo repairs following the recent collision.
Efforts are also underway to secure funding for fencing additional sections of the railway line. Mr. Appoh stressed that improving railway safety requires public cooperation. He noted that infrastructure and security measures alone cannot eliminate irresponsible behaviour.
He urged the public to keep people, vehicles, and livestock away from railway tracks. The economic implications of these safety concerns are substantial. Disruptions to railway services can impact trade and the movement of goods and people. This affects economic productivity and investor confidence in Ghana's infrastructure projects.