Aayalolo expansion targets private car users, not trotro operators – Mahama Ayariga

The government aims to expand Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services, not to harm trotro operators, according to Mahama Ayariga, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Ayariga emphasized that the expansion intends to offer commuters a faster, more reliable, and comfortable alternative to private cars during peak hours in Accra.

He argued that enhancing the quality and predictability of public transport could persuade some motorists to switch from driving alone to mass transit. Ayariga clarified that despite the continued demand for transport between communities and major destinations, trotro operators would still be able to serve commuters, even as Aayalolo services are expanded.

He rejected concerns that the new system would put commercial transport businesses, like trotro driving, at risk. On Citi FM, Ayariga stated that the government’s priority is to attract private car users to public transport, claiming that these car owners often stand by the roadside, going to work alone. He proposed that an alternative, clean, and rapid transport system would provide a comfortable solution for commuters, with bus rides taking only 15-20 minutes to reach Accra Central.

Ayariga also highlighted that fixed departure times would help commuters plan their journeys more efficiently, while maintaining that "there's still a lot of work for transport stations in between the two far ends." These remarks preceded the government's introduction of a pilot contra-flow arrangement for Aayalolo buses on major Accra corridors from Tuesday, September 29.

The arrangement includes designated lanes exclusively for Aayalolo services during peak hours on the Amasaman–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra corridors.