Transport consultant, Cecil Gabrah, has raised concerns about the type of buses predominantly used for commercial transportation in Ghana, stating that they are largely inappropriate for passenger use.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Wednesday, Mr Gabrah highlighted the fundamental issues within the country’s transportation sector and proposed pragmatic solutions to address traffic congestion.
Gabrah pointed out that the common use of Sprinter vans for passenger transport is unsuitable. “I always advise my family and friends never to travel in Sprinter buses because they are not designed for human passengers,” he remarked.
He explained that genuine passenger buses are specifically designed to ensure proper weight distribution and safety, unlike the modified cargo vans currently in use.
The transport consultant further elaborated on the technical drawbacks of using Sprinter vans.
“These vans are altered at fitting shops, where heavy angle irons are welded into them, making their center of gravity unstable. Yet, we continue to register these vans as passenger vehicles,” Gabrah stated.
He emphasized that these modifications compromise the stability and safety of the vehicles, posing significant risks to passengers.
Mr Gabrah’s critique comes amid discussions on Ghana’s transportation challenges, including the recent controversy over a proposed law to allow parliamentarians, ministers of state, and judges to use sirens and be exempt from speed limits.
Instead of such measures, he advocates for a more sustainable and effective approach to urban transportation.
He suggested that Ghana should fully enforce the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to phase out unsuitable vehicles naturally.
“The BRT system must be enforced. If it is done, we will naturally phase out these unsuitable buses,” he noted.
Mr Gabrah clarified that his intention is not to destroy businesses but to encourage a transition to safer and more appropriate modes of transport.
Drawing comparisons to international examples, Gabrah cited Brazil’s successful transformation of its urban transportation system.
“Brazil began its transformation in 1974. Today, their cities have significantly reduced traffic congestion. The strength of their system lies in meticulous planning, and this is what our country needs,” he observed.
