As part of efforts to promote discipline within the transport sector and ensure sanity on the roads in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Lawyer Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo, has held a meeting with transport operators in the Metropolis.

Addressing the meeting, the Hon. MCE emphasized that the engagement was intended to build rapport and create a platform for continuous interaction between the Assembly and transport operators. He stressed that the Assembly is committed to listening to their concerns and working collaboratively to drive the development of the Metropolis.

The Western Regional Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Mr. Joseph Cudjoe highlighted several issues currently affecting drivers and operators in the Metropolis, such as the proliferation of unauthorized transport stations, roadways being taken over by market women, particularly around the CBD area, and trucks frequently offloading in traffic-congested zones. He added that vehicular and pedestrian overcrowding at the Jubilee Market area due to the unauthorized loading terminals poses risks to drivers and pedestrians and affects the work opportunities for registered drivers. He further expressed concern about speeding by haulage trucks, especially on the roads under construction along the Beahu-Agona Nkwanta route, posing safety hazards.

Speaking to their concerns, the MCE hinted that both EKMA and STMA have held talks with the Regional Minister, and very soon, renovation works will commence at the Jubilee Park to revert it to its original use.

Touching on the unauthorised stations, he indicated that the Assembly is understaffed with its Metro Guards and indicated that plans were advanced to recruit more hands to assist in law enforcement in the Metropolis, He added that there will be an operation to take all market and shop owners who have extended their markets to the streets. He finally pointed out that he would liaise with the Ahanta West MCE and other stakeholders to get the haulage truck drivers to reduce their speed to prevent any eventualities.