Three transport unions have demanded the removal of traders, hawkers and market vendors from bus stops, lorry terminals, pedestrian walkways and road intersections before the government introduces its proposed automated traffic enforcement system, Traffic Tech G8.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana and the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana made the demand at a joint press conference, warning that enforcing traffic rules without first clearing the roads would unfairly punish commercial drivers.
The unions said many designated bus stops and other operational spaces had been occupied by traders, making it difficult for drivers to pick up and drop off passengers safely.
They cited locations including Kaneshie, CMB, Circle, Madina, Kasoa, KJTR, Takoradi Market Circle and other major towns as areas where trading activities had taken over spaces intended for transport operations and pedestrian movement.
The groups said the government’s planned Traffic Tech G8 system, which is intended to identify drivers who stop or pick up passengers at unauthorised locations, could create additional difficulties if the affected areas remained obstructed.
“How can you punish a driver for not stopping at a designated bus stop when that bus stop has been occupied by market women and traders?” the unions asked.
They also questioned how drivers could be penalised for obstructing traffic when traders had allegedly taken over the spaces needed for their operations.
The unions therefore called for all affected bus stops, lorry terminals, pedestrian walkways and road intersections to be cleared before the new system is introduced and becomes operational.
They argued that drivers should not be expected to comply with designated stopping rules when the facilities provided for that purpose are inaccessible.
“We cannot digitalize illegality, clear the road first, then enforce the camera system,” the unions declared.
The statement reflects the groups’ position that road clearance should precede the implementation of automated traffic enforcement to ensure that drivers and other road users are treated fairly.
The unions also warned that the continued occupation of transport facilities could undermine efforts to improve traffic management and road discipline.
They called on the relevant authorities to address the situation before proceeding with the proposed enforcement system.
The government is yet to respond to the unions’ demands in the information provided.
