Tanker drivers suspend strike, give gov’t one month to fix deplorable roads

The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union has called off its sit-down strike, giving the government one month to demonstrate progress in fixing roads crucial for petroleum transport. The drivers will resume operations on September 4, following intervention from the Ghana Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC).

The suspension came after weeks of pressure from drivers who warned of industrial action due to dangerous and deteriorating road conditions. The Union had issued a two-week ultimatum to address the issue, which began on September 2 and affected key loading points such as the Tema industrial area, Valco Roundabout to Kpone Junction, Takoradi, and Buipe depots.

The drivers highlighted the critical nature of these roads as they generate about GH¢300 million in weekly tax revenue for the government. Despite suspending the strike, the tanker drivers insist their demands remain unchanged and demand immediate, concrete steps to rehabilitate the affected roads. Should the government fail to meet the one-month deadline with "visible and measurable progress," the Union warned of a return to industrial action.