Tricycle operators in the Ashanti Region are intensifying their protest against a directive that limits their movement within certain parts of the Central Business District, as the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly remains steadfast in its commitment to enforce the policy.

On Wednesday, August 2, the tricycle operators took to the streets, blocking a major road leading to Kejetia, causing significant disruptions to traffic and daily activities.

This demonstration comes in response to the KMA's decision to ban tricycles, commonly known as "pragya" or "aboboyaa," from operating within the central business district of Kumasi.

The ban was implemented to address traffic congestion and improve pedestrian safety in the bustling area.

The tricycle operators heavily rely on transporting passengers and goods within the city center, and they voiced their frustration and concerns over the ban.

They argued that this decision would negatively impact their livelihoods and result in many of them losing their jobs.

In their demand to the KMA, the tricycle operators are urging a reconsideration of the ban and are seeking constructive dialogue with their representatives to find a viable solution that protects their interests while also addressing the city's traffic challenges.

The road blockade leading to Kejetia resulted in a traffic gridlock, with commuters and motorists caught in the midst of the protest. Police officers were promptly dispatched to manage the situation and ensure public safety.

Earlier, on August 1, nine tricycle operators were arrested and subsequently granted bail following clashes with some city guards.

The leadership of the Pragya Workers Association of Ghana contends that the reasons given by the Assembly to restrict their movement are not convincing enough.

In an interview with the media, Secretary of the group, expressed concern about being pushed out of the Central Business District onto highways, thereby increasing the risk to their safety.

“When you look at the demarcation, they are now clearly sacking us from the Central Business District to the highways for the cars to kill us more. Are they looking for the betterment of Pragya drivers, or what? Because this decision will further expose us to more risk, than their decision to minimise congestion”.

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly began implementing the directive to restrict tricycles from operating within the central business district (CBD) on July 25, as part of its efforts to address congestion within the metropolis.

While tricycle riders strongly oppose the decision, the head of the transport department at KMA, Randy Wilson, remains unwavering in the assembly's determination to enforce the directive as a means to tackle the congestion issue in the metropolis.