The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has resumed passenger train services on the Tema–Mpakadan corridor, signalling the start of commercial operations for the 97.7-kilometre standard-gauge rail line.
The service officially begins today, after months of delays and several test runs.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari-Nikpe has confirmed that the Tema–Mpakadan railway will officially begin passenger operations on October 1, following the completion of all safety test runs on September 16.
According to Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) CEO Dr. Frederick Appoh, earlier challenges including infrastructure defects and right-of-way encroachment have now been resolved.
The GRDA is also working with transport operators to ensure seamless onward connections for commuters.
Stations along the line will be linked to Ayalolo buses, GPRTU vehicles, and ride-hailing services such as Uber.
The 97–98 km standard-gauge line, built by Afcons Infrastructure with financing from India’s EXIM Bank, was commissioned in November 2024 by then-President Nana Akufo-Addo along with two new Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains.
Its launch was delayed by vandalism, theft, and land encroachment.
Officials say the rail line will ease congestion on the Tema–Afienya stretch, boost commuter convenience, and form a key part of the Eastern Corridor Railway project, which is designed to strengthen links between Ghana’s ports, inland regions, and eventually landlocked neighbours.
Source: myxyzonlin.com/J.W. Quarm
