The Upper East Regional Chairman of BONABOTO, Dr. Esmond Agurgo Balfour, has called on the government to develop a comprehensive policy framework to support public transport operators, citing rising operational costs and growing economic pressures on the sector.
Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tinmaalgo Sanga programme, Dr. Balfour said the transport sector remains a critical driver of national development but continues to face significant challenges that threaten its sustainability.
According to him, public transport plays an essential role in facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services across the country, yet many operators are struggling with rising fuel prices, increasing maintenance costs, and other operational expenses.
“The transport sector plays a critical role in national development. However, many public transport operators continue to face significant challenges, including rising fuel prices, high maintenance costs, and increasing operational expenses,” he stated.
Dr. Balfour argued that a dedicated government policy to support transport operators would improve service delivery, lower transportation costs for commuters, and stimulate economic activity, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
He noted that although private transport operators make substantial contributions to Ghana’s transportation system, many lack the financial capacity to absorb economic shocks and sustain their operations during difficult periods.
To strengthen the sector, he urged the government to consider targeted interventions such as tax reliefs, affordable financing schemes, fuel support programmes, and investments in transport infrastructure.
“Investing in public transport would not only benefit transport operators but also improve access to education, healthcare, markets, and employment opportunities for millions of Ghanaians,” he said.
Dr. Balfour further called on policymakers, transport unions, and other stakeholders to work together to develop sustainable solutions that would ensure a reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation system.
He expressed confidence that with the right policy measures and institutional support, Ghana’s transport sector could become an even stronger contributor to economic growth and national development.
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