Transport unions across Ghana have issued a one‑week ultimatum to the Ministries of Trade, Interior and Local Government, demanding the removal of traders from designated bus stops and pedestrian walkways nationwide ahead of the full implementation of the TraffiTech‑GH traffic enforcement system on November 1, 2026.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), part of the Trades Union Congress, and the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana said that traders and hawkers have occupied bus stops, intersections and pedestrian walkways, disrupting passenger pick‑ups and drop‑offs and creating safety risks for road users.
At a press conference, GPRTU Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah called the situation unacceptable and urged the enforcement of relevant road traffic regulations. He cited major transport hubs where designated bus stops and pedestrian walkways had allegedly been converted into trading areas, naming Kaneshie, Accra CMB, Circle, Madina, Kasoa, Kejetia, Takoradi Market Circle and other major towns. “Bus stops at places like Kaneshie, Accra CMB, Circle, Madina, Kasoa, Kejetia, Takoradi Market Circle and all major towns have been turned into markets. Pedestrian walkways meant for safe walking have become trading stalls. Drivers can no longer pick or drop passengers safely,” he said.
Amoah said the activities violated Regulation 182 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), as amended, and urged the relevant ministries to clear the affected areas before the new traffic enforcement system is fully implemented.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Concerned Drivers Association, Paa George Williams, said it was unfair for drivers to face penalties for stopping at undesignated locations when traders had occupied approved bus stops. He also urged the government to repair and modernise traffic lights and other road infrastructure to improve traffic management and road safety.
The unions’ demand comes as Ghana prepares to launch TraffiTech‑GH, a nationwide traffic enforcement system that will use cameras and automated ticketing to improve road safety. The unions argue that the presence of traders at bus stops will undermine the system’s effectiveness and endanger commuters.
Authorities have yet to respond publicly to the unions’ ultimatum. The unions have set a deadline of October 22, 2026, for the ministries to act, after which they may seek further action to ensure compliance.
