This, he said was in fulfillment of President John Dramani Mahama‘s vision to develop Coastal Water Transport Systems to complement the existing road transport system.
“We are commissioning a feasibility study to explore the potential in the private sector in the coastal water transport system,” Mr Nikpe stated on Wednesday, when he took his turn at the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra.
He said the expression of interest would soon be advertised to invite interested firms; adding that he was encouraging local companies with relevant experience to participate in this road transport services sector.
The Minister reiterated that the road transport had long been Ghana’s economic backbone and primary mode of travel.
Adding that all transport, whether by air, sea, rail, automatically ends with the means of road transport.
He noted that however, the sector faces challenges like congestion and inefficiencies.
He said current efforts aimed to enhance safety and efficiency include regularization of motorcycles and tricycles for fare-paying passengers.
He said motorcycles and tricycles, commonly known as Okada, were vital for transportation systems, however, current regulations ban their use, creating enforcement and safety challenges.
Mr Nikpe said to establish a robust regulatory framework, the Ministry had begun processes to amend the Road Traffic Act 2004 Act 683 and the Road Traffic Regulations 2012 LI2180.
He said stakeholder consultations had been completed, and the proposed amendments had been approved by the Cabinet to be laid in Parliament when they re-assume.
With regards to reduction in transport public fares, Mr Nikpe said to alleviate the burden on commuters and mirror microeconomic improvement such as the reduction in fuel prices, the government negotiated for 15 per cent decrease in public transport fares.
He said this reduction, which took place or effect on May 24, represents the most significant decrease recorded since the administrative arrangement on public transport fares was introduced in 2015. “This measure has provided relief to commuters whilst maintaining operational stability of transport operators,” he said.
Concerning the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) 24-Hour Services, the Minister said to improve and expand service delivery and support the implementation of the 24-Hour Economy Policy, the Authority had established a new operational office at the Adenta Bus Terminal in Accra.
He said this modern facility operates 24 hours a day, offering round-the-clock services to enhance accessibility and convenience for motorists in Adenta and nearby areas.
He said the DVLA had since May this year commissioned and operationalized four new offices in Adenta, Bawaleshie, Asamankase and Akwatia.
He said two new offices in Dorma and Bechim were set to be commissioned later this month.
“With the operationalization of these offices, the Authority is taking steps to close the service gap and bring its operations closer to citizens in underserved areas,” he said.
GNA
