Policy analyst and Economist, Dr. Peter Terkper has called on the government to take stronger control of the transport sector, warning that weak regulation and excessive liberalization are the cause of Accra’s worsening commuting challenges.
According to Dr. Terkper on ABC In the Morning, on Monday 19th January, 2026, the sector has been allowed to operate with minimal coordination and oversight, resulting in chaotic traffic patterns, inefficient public transport services, and daily gridlock that continues to frustrate commuters.
“The transport sector has become too free,” he said, stressing that the absence of firm government control has encouraged unregulated operations and poor planning, particularly in the capital.
Dr. Terkper cautioned that if the situation persists, traffic congestion in Accra could soon discourage private car ownership altogether, as commuting becomes increasingly unproductive.
“In some years to come, the traffic congestion will make it unproductive and frustrating for people to buy cars,” he noted, adding that excessive time spent in traffic is eroding productivity and increasing economic pressure on workers and businesses.
He clarified that government control does not imply taking over transport operations, but rather enforcing stronger regulation, coordinated route planning, and long-term urban mobility policies that prioritize efficiency and public interest.
His comments come amid growing public concern over persistent traffic congestion in Accra, the daily scramble for public transport, and the economic and social toll of daily commuting challenges.
