Accra’s new electric buses are set to revolutionize urban transportation with a contraflow system designed to bypass traffic congestion. This strategy, introduced by the Greater Accra Private Transport Executive (GAPTE) in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, will allow electric buses to travel against the usual flow of traffic during peak hours.

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The Managing Director of GAPTE, Charles Abban, explained that the system would utilise underused lanes on roads during peak directional traffic. For instance, as commuters travel toward the city centre in the morning, the opposite lane which is typically less congested, will be allocated to the electric buses. Mr.

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Abban noted, “The deployment of the EV buses may not be effective if the buses are not moving faster than the ordinary traffic... So, we have designed a contraflow concept. We are going to take one lane of the other side and allow the EV buses to move contra and get to the city center faster and efficiently.

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” This was developed in collaboration with the Department of Urban Roads, the Ministry of Transport, and the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD).The plan will initially cover major routes, including Ashaiman-Accra, Oyibi-Accra, and Accra-Amasaman.

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Managing Director of Metro Mass Transit Limited, Albert Adu Boahen,  noted that supporting infrastructure, such as charging facilities, is being deployed across the city to ensure seamless operations. He added that the initiative is expected to cut operational costs by 40%, promising lower fares for commuters and more reliable services.

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 The new buses form part of a broader effort to modernise Ghana’s transport system while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. With high fuel costs and frequent vehicle breakdowns plaguing public transport, these electric buses are expected to provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

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