Mayor Allotey Deploys AMA Taskforce to Enforce Transport Fares and Safety Regulations in Accra

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has launched a multi-pronged initiative to sanitize the transport sector in the capital, focusing on fare compliance and enhanced road safety. Mayor Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey announced the deployment of a specialized task force to the Central Business District (CBD) to monitor commercial transport operators, including trotros, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The move is designed to curb arbitrary fare increases during peak hours and protect commuters from undue financial burdens. Mayor Allotey warned that any driver found charging above the approved rates would face legal consequences under established assembly bylaws, emphasizing that transport costs must remain stable to prevent a ripple effect on the price of essential goods.

Simultaneously, the AMA has introduced strict new regulations for motorized tricycle operators, popularly known as 'Aboboyaa,' to reduce road accidents. Effective immediately, these tricycles are banned from using the inner lanes of major roads and must instead utilize designated side roads or stick to the outer lanes. The Mayor also set a firm deadline of August 2026 for all tricycle operators to install reflector stickers and for drivers to wear reflective clothing. This directive follows alarming data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) indicating that over 90% of tricycles currently lack essential safety features like side mirrors and proper lighting. While the AMA acknowledges the vital role of these tricycles in waste collection and local logistics, the assembly insists that road discipline must be prioritized to ensure the safety of all road users.

These local enforcement efforts coincide with the introduction of the nationwide Road Traffic Regulations, 2026. The Ghana Police Service, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Alexander Kweku Obeng, is urging the public and transport stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the new legislative framework, which replaces the 2012 regulations. The 2026 update addresses modern developments in the transport sector, such as the rise of electric vehicles and the implementation of electronic ticketing and digital payment systems for traffic violations. Authorities believe these technological advancements will foster more efficient traffic management and higher levels of compliance across the country.

However, the push for transport regulation comes amid growing political concern over the cost of travel. Kennedy Nyarko Osei, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, recently raised alarms regarding the skyrocketing cost of domestic air travel. He noted that return flights between Accra and Kumasi have surged from approximately GH"1,600 in 2024 to as much as GH"5,000 in 2026. Osei questioned the justification for such hikes at a time when the government reports improvements in inflation and exchange rate stability. As the AMA and national authorities tighten regulations, the debate over transport affordability remains a central issue for both commuters and policymakers heading into the latter half of the year.