Metro Mass clarifies purpose of 100 new buses amid Accra Transport concerns

The clarification follows growing public concerns over persistent commuting difficulties in the capital, where many residents continue to face long waiting times, overcrowding and limited access to transport, particularly during peak hours.

Several commuters have questioned whether the newly commissioned buses would help ease pressure on Accra’s transportation network and improve mobility within the city.

However, Metro Mass Transit says the expectation that the buses were procured solely to resolve transportation problems in Accra is misplaced. According to the company, the vehicles are intended to strengthen public transport services in various cities and municipalities nationwide.

Speaking on the issue, the Head of Corporate Communications at Metro Mass Transit Limited, Mohammed Mubarak Watara, explained that the acquisition forms part of a broader strategy to revitalise the state-owned transport company and expand its operational capacity.

He noted that the procurement was undertaken with the support of the Presidency and the Ministry of Transport as part of efforts to reposition Metro Mass and improve service delivery across the country.

“The buses didn’t come because of intracity operations. It was an arrangement made by the current executives as a way of resetting Metro Mass through the directive and support of the Presidency and the Ministry of Transport,” he said.

Mr Watara further explained that Metro Mass was originally established to provide intercity transport services rather than urban transport within cities.

“When Metro Mass started operating, it was solely on intercity services, not intracity operations,” he stated.

He also highlighted what he described as a common misconception among the public regarding the roles of Metro Mass and Aayalolo.

“People often mistake the operations of Aayalolo for Metro Mass. Aayalolo basically deals with intracity transport,” he added.

The clarification comes as authorities continue efforts to improve public transportation services nationwide amid rising demand for affordable and reliable transport options.