The government is considering the introduction of a light rail transportation network along four major routes in Accra as part of efforts to establish a lasting solution to the capital’s worsening traffic congestion and growing public transportation demands.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama had instructed him to commence consultations on the feasibility of establishing light rail services along four principal corridors that accommodate substantial numbers of commuters travelling into and out of the capital.
The proposed railway infrastructure is being considered as a more sustainable and long term mass transportation alternative to complement the existing Aayalolo bus contra flow arrangement, which permits designated buses to operate against the regular direction of traffic along selected routes to ease congestion and shorten travelling times.
Speaking in an interview with Accra based Citi FM on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Mr Ayariga acknowledged that the existing contra flow arrangement had contributed considerably to reducing commuting delays. However, he explained that the President was interested in pursuing a more permanent transportation intervention capable of addressing Accra’s future mobility requirements.
He said the President had consequently directed him to engage relevant stakeholders, particularly the Railway Authority, to examine the prospects of developing light rail infrastructure along the four major transportation corridors.
“The President said, ‘contra-flow is good, but look at light rail as your more permanent solution going into the future,’ and so I am commencing conversations with the Railway Authority for us to see how we can begin to look at light rail along the four major routes that bring in a lot of the people in and out of the city,” he stated.
The Aayalolo contra flow arrangement was introduced to enhance the efficiency of public transportation along some of Accra’s busiest road networks, particularly during peak commuting hours when motorists and passengers frequently encounter prolonged traffic delays.
Through the initiative, selected buses are permitted to utilise designated lanes in the opposite direction of conventional traffic movement, enabling them to avoid certain congestion points and transport passengers more efficiently.
The arrangement is intended to improve the accessibility, dependability and effectiveness of public transportation, especially for residents travelling from surrounding communities into major commercial districts and employment centres within the capital.
Nevertheless, the existing system continues to rely heavily on available road infrastructure, efficient traffic supervision and the consistent provision of buses and personnel to maintain its operations.
The proposed light rail development therefore represents an additional transportation option the government intends to examine as it seeks to address Accra’s expanding commuter population, reduce pressure on major road networks and improve the movement of passengers between the capital and its surrounding communities.
Although the initiative remains at the feasibility and consultation stage, its eventual implementation would depend on the outcome of discussions with the relevant railway authorities and the government’s assessment of the infrastructure and investment requirements.
