Ministry of Local Government to Launch Aayalolo Contra-Flow System on Major Accra Corridors

Starting Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the Government of Ghana will implement a new contra-flow traffic arrangement for Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services across several critical corridors in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area. This strategic initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, aims to drastically reduce travel times and alleviate the chronic congestion that plagues routes leading into Accra's Central Business District (CBD). The system will initially target three primary corridors—Amasaman–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra—with some officials also identifying the Pokuase route for inclusion in the rollout.

Under the new regulations, designated lanes will be reserved exclusively for authorized Aayalolo buses, allowing them to travel against the standard flow of traffic during peak commuting hours. These operational windows are set from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, and the Department of Urban Roads. Authorities have clarified that private vehicles and other commercial transport operators are strictly prohibited from using these contra-flow lanes, with police officers stationed at key intersections to enforce compliance and ensure road safety.

Addressing potential concerns within the transport sector, Mahama Ayariga, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, emphasized that the expansion of Aayalolo services is not intended to displace "trotro" operators. Instead, the policy is designed to provide a more reliable public transit alternative that encourages private car owners to opt for mass transport. By improving the punctuality and efficiency of the BRT system, the government hopes to shift the modal split of urban transport toward higher-capacity vehicles. Awudu Dawuda, the Acting Managing Director of GAPTE, noted that previous trials of the contra-flow system demonstrated a significant reduction in journey times, proving the potential for the system to transform urban mobility.

This traffic management intervention marks a significant step in the government’s broader strategy to modernize Accra’s infrastructure and enhance the daily lives of thousands of commuters. The success of the program relies heavily on the cooperation of the motoring public and strict enforcement by the MTTD to prevent unauthorized lane incursions. As the September 29 rollout approaches, officials are urging all road users to exercise patience and follow the directions of traffic officers to ensure a smooth transition toward a more efficient and dependable public transportation network in the capital.