Transport operators in Ghana have issued a stern warning to the government and the Ghana Police Service, demanding immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

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They have given authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

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They argue that while commercial drivers are expected to comply with strict transport regulations, traders continue to operate with impunity, defying the laws without consequence.

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In a statement, the transport unions described the current situation as unjust and unsustainable. “We, the transport operators, are deeply concerned about the indiscriminate trading on roads and pavements. Despite the existence of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), enforcement has been weak, allowing traders to continue obstructing roads and endangering lives,” the statement said.

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The operators are calling on the relevant authorities, including the Ministries of Transport, Roads and Highways, Local Government and Religious Affairs, Trade and Industry, and the Interior, to collaborate and restore order.

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They also invited these ministries to join them in a symbolic march to advocate for safer and more organized roads.

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"If nothing meaningful is done by May 19, we will have no option but to park our vehicles in protest. This is not just about the inconvenience caused to drivers; it is about the safety of all road users and the urgent need for designated trading and parking spaces,” the group emphasized.

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They stressed that the intended protest is not to create chaos but to demand accountability and action. “We seek a collaborative solution that promotes safety, order, and economic activity. All we ask is for the law to be enforced fairly and consistently.”

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The transport operators’ call adds to growing public pressure on authorities to implement existing laws meant to regulate urban activity and reduce road accidents caused by unauthorized street trading.

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Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

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These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

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Under Regulation 117 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), it is an offence for any person to engage in trading activities in certain areas that pose a risk to public safety or obstruct the smooth flow of traffic.

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According to the law, a person shall not sell goods, display goods, offer goods for sale, or deliver goods as part of a sale on or alongside a road. A person shall also not sell or display goods on a pedestrian walkway. In addition, a person is prohibited from selling, displaying, offering for sale, or delivering goods within thirty metres of a railway level crossing.

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The law further prohibits such activities under a road traffic sign that indicates a blind corner or a rise. It is also an offence to engage in these trading activities within an intersection. Lastly, the law forbids trading on or alongside any road, including areas around a toll booth and a toll plaza.

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Any person who violates the above restrictions commits an offence. Upon summary conviction, the person is liable to pay a fine not exceeding fifty penalty units or serve a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months, or both.

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This regulation is designed to safeguard the safety of all road users and ensure that trading activities do not interfere with traffic or endanger lives.

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Transport operators are urging authorities to enforce this regulation to address the challenges posed by

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