Mahama Ayariga says gov’t is considering light rail network on major Accra routes

The government is exploring the possibility of introducing a light rail network along four major routes in Accra as part of efforts to develop a more sustainable solution to the capital’s growing transportation challenges.

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, said President John Dramani Mahama had directed him to initiate discussions on the feasibility of introducing light rail services along routes serving large numbers of commuters travelling into and out of the capital.

The proposed network is being considered as a more permanent mass transportation option alongside the existing Aayalolo bus contra-flow system, which allows designated buses to travel against the normal direction of traffic on selected corridors to ease congestion and reduce journey times.

Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Mr Ayariga said the current arrangement had significantly improved journey times for commuters, but the President wanted a more sustainable solution for the future.

He said he had been tasked with engaging the relevant authorities, particularly the Railway Authority, to explore the possibility of developing light rail infrastructure along the four major routes.

“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.”

The Aayalolo contra-flow system was introduced to improve public transport efficiency along some of Accra’s busiest road corridors, particularly during peak periods when commuters face lengthy delays travelling into and out of the city.

Under the arrangement, designated buses are permitted to use selected lanes in the opposite direction of normal traffic, allowing them to bypass congestion and provide faster journeys for passengers.

The intervention is intended to make public transport more efficient and reliable, particularly for residents travelling from surrounding communities to major commercial and employment centres in the capital.

However, the system remains dependent on existing road infrastructure, effective traffic management and the availability of buses and personnel to sustain its operations.

The proposed light rail initiative signals the government’s intention to explore a more permanent mass transportation option to address Accra’s growing commuter traffic and improve movement along major routes into and out of the city.