The Local Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) at Community 1 Lorry Station, Dosseh Fiaku, has expressed concern about the health risks posed by vehicle emissions, attributing the problem to ageing vehicles, poor road infrastructure, and the high cost of vehicle maintenance.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Fiaku acknowledged the harmful effects of exhaust fumes on both drivers and commuters, stressing that many commercial drivers are forced to operate vehicles with deteriorating engines due to financial constraints.
“The smoke is not good for our health, but you have to manage it,” he said, explaining that the high cost of replacing engines makes it difficult for many drivers to maintain their vehicles properly.
According to him, road conditions and the increasing number of speed ramps also contribute to the problem by placing additional strain on vehicle engines.
“Because of the nature of the roads and the speed ramps, drivers face a lot of challenges. The government should do something about it,” he appealed.
Mr. Fiaku noted that concerns raised by transport operators are often overlooked, adding that drivers are doing their best to keep their vehicles running despite limited support.
He admitted that his own vehicle emits smoke regularly due to engine-related issues.
“The smoke comes from the car because the engines are expensive. You cannot always buy a new engine, so you have to manage it,” he explained.
The GPRTU chairman warned that prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions could have serious health implications for drivers and the public.
“Breathing in that smoke can cause health problems. The smoke is not good for your health, so the problem must be fixed,” he stated.
His comments highlight the broader challenges facing Ghana’s transport sector, where ageing vehicle fleets, rising maintenance costs, and road infrastructure concerns continue to contribute to urban air pollution and public health risks.
Mr. Fiaku called for greater government intervention to address these challenges and support efforts to improve air quality and road transport conditions across the country.
