Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, has reaffirmed the government’s concern to revive the country’s struggling railway sector.
He has also made declarations about plans the Ministry has to get Ghana’s railways back on its feet.
During a press conference held on Wednesday, September 18, the Minister outlined strategic plans the Ministry of Transport has to get the nation’s railways on track. He announced a nationwide campaign, in collaboration with security agencies and the Lands Commission, to remove encroachments along railway corridors and formalize land titles.
‘’The Ministry is currently collaborating with security agencies and the Lands Commission to launch a campaign to remove encroachments from the railway right of way and perfect titles to railway lands nationwide. This is to enable our contractors to have unimpeded access to learn and facilitate any completion of railway projects,’’ he said.
Mr. Bukari acknowledged the significant decline in operations at the Ghana Railway Company, citing years of infrastructure deterioration and financial difficulties, and addressed the months-long salary delays that have left railway staff in a state of uncertainty. He mentioned that, Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance and key stakeholders to develop a sustainable solution, one that repairs not just the rails but also restores the dignity of those who maintain them.
‘’The Ghana Railway Company’s operations have declined over the years, due to infrastructure deterioration, which has limited its capacity to generate sufficient revenue to cover its operational costs, including staff salaries.’’
‘’We’re engaging with the Ministry of Finance and stakeholders to devote a sustainable solution going forward. I must add that we feel for the workers, and we have gotten close to resolving this issue and getting them their salaries,’’ he added.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Mirabel Serwaa Asante
