Government to revive Ayalolo buses with dedicated traffic lanes

The government has announced plans to repair and revive the Ayalolo bus service as part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion in major cities across Ghana.

Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Mahama Ayariga said the government wants to make the buses faster and more reliable to encourage more people to use public transport instead of private cars.

He said the service is expected to facilitate faster movement from residential areas to city centres in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and Tamale.

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Speaking during a visit to the Ayalolo bus terminal on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Ayariga said people would be more willing to leave their cars at home if public buses were efficient and reliable.

“People will only use the rapid transport system if, indeed, they are rapid,” Ayariga said.

As part of the plan, the government intends to create dedicated lanes for Ayalolo buses on some major roads, particularly during peak hours. Other vehicles would not be allowed to use the lanes during those periods.

The dedicated lanes are expected to operate from 6:00am to 9:00am and from 4:00pm to 7:00pm to allow the buses to bypass traffic and get passengers to their destinations faster.

Routes being considered include Adenta to Accra Central, Kasoa to Accra Central, Nsawam to Accra Central, and Accra to Tema.

“Police officers on motorbikes from the Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate will also help the buses move through traffic. They will lead the buses and help clear the way while ensuring the safety of passengers,” he explained.

Ayariga said similar systems are being used in other countries, including Istanbul, where special arrangements are made to keep public transport moving during periods of heavy traffic.

The government also plans to prevent large buses travelling from other regions from entering congested city centres. Under the proposal, passengers would alight at terminals to be constructed on the outskirts of cities and continue their journeys on Ayalolo buses.

District assemblies are also expected to play a role in managing and financing public transport in their respective areas. They may use revenue from local rates and levies to support the service.

Ayariga said he will meet the Ministers for Transport, Roads and Highways, and Interior to discuss the proposals and work towards incorporating them into government policy.

ANAS/MA