Train involved in test run accident to start operations in June – Railways Minister

The train involved in a test run accident is set to commence operations in June, the Minister of Railways Development, John Peter Amewu, has disclosed.

He mentioned that the government is currently awaiting new parts to repair the damaged train.

"We still estimate that the commissioning of the line will occur anytime from the first to the second week of June. We are waiting for the arrival of the parts. As soon as we receive the parts, the train will be pulled back too... It was quite unfortunate that we had that nasty incident where the train ran into a stationary vehicle. I believe you were all there to witness it," Mr. Amewu stated during an interview on Asaaseradio.

"What we have done now is order the parts. They will be brought in within the next three to four weeks. The area or the part that was damaged," he added.

The railways minister emphasised that the government is prioritizing the repair process to minimize any delays in the operationalization of the train.

The train, which was imported from Poland, collided with a truck during the test, raising concerns about its readiness for service.

After the accident, the driver of the Hyundai truck involved in the collision was arrested and subsequently sentenced to six months in jail.

Meanwhile, an Accra High Court has granted GH₵200,000 bail to each of the four individuals arrested for their alleged involvement in the train accident.

The Tema-Mpakadan railway line is anticipated to enhance the efficient movement of goods and passengers, contributing to economic development and regional connectivity.

SA/NOQ