GPHA announces urgent measures to ease congestion at Tema Port

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has unveiled urgent measures to tackle congestion at the Port of Tema, pledging to restore smooth cargo flow and maintain efficient operations. The authority explained that the congestion is mainly due to a surge in import volumes, a surge in exports of empty containers, and growing road traffic around the port area.

GPHA observed that other ports in the West African region are also grappling with similar congestion, causing delays in moving both loaded and empty containers. To tackle the issue, GPHA has activated reinforced operational steps and placed all pertinent parties on high alert. The interventions are being carried out in tandem with shipping lines and terminal operators to boost cargo movement and utilize terminal capacity to its fullest.

Key steps include expedited empty container evacuations through more vessel calls, boosting container transfer operations, deploying more trucks, enhancing the handling and storage of empty containers, and optimizing yard and traffic management within the port. The authority emphasized that these actions are aimed at easing congestion, enhancing efficiency, and guaranteeing uninterrupted international trade via Ghana's primary seaport.

GPHA also urged importers, clearing agents, and cargo owners to hasten the clearance and evacuation of their goods from the port, stressing that prompt removal of cargo is crucial to creating more space in terminals, boosting operational efficiency, and facilitating smooth goods movement. The authority assured stakeholders of continuous monitoring and implementation of necessary steps to address the situation and restore normal operations as swiftly as possible.

GPHA expressed gratitude to the trading community and the public for their patience, cooperation, and understanding during the congestion period, reaffirming its commitment to a secure, effective, and competitive port system that supports Ghana's international trade goals and broader economic growth.