Ghana Railway Authority is embarking on a sensitization of Ghanaians on the railway master plan for Ghana.
The transport ministry says it is determined to ensure the re-introduction of rail transport in all its glory.
Speaking at the sensitization forum held at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Kumasi, Deputy Ashanti Regional Minister Joseph Yammin emphasized the importance of rail transport to the fortunes of Ghana’s economy.
“In Ghana railway used to play a major role in the past but its fortune dwindled and the state of affairs of that sector is nothing to write home about”, he said, adding however that the mobility challenges faced by Ghanaians is negatively affecting the country’s development hence the need to re-introduce a fully functional rail transport system in the country.
“The aim of the railway master plan I can say is to provide Ghana with a rail system that can contribute to economic growth, compete in the market place for both passengers and freight traffic and enhance the development of the economy of the Country”.
Mr. Yammin reveals that government, under its master plan intends to roll-out a series of rehabilitation programmes, upgrading as well as new projects aimed at improving access across the country and linking-up with International rail network in surrounding countries.
The Deputy regional minister however stressed the need for stakeholder collaboration and contribution towards the success of the project.
He however strongly cautioned encroachers of railway lands to start clearing off the lines to avoid inconveniences in the near future.