Dynamics of Public Transport in Ghana: The Case of the Use of Tricycles in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA)

Abstract

Transportation serves as a critical enabler for human mobility, goods movement, and service delivery. Most urban commuters rely on public transport systems to satisfy their mobility needs. Although transportation is not an end in itself but a means to various goals, urban residents face intricate challenges tied to their location, income, time constraints, objectives, mode feasibility, accessibility, and other factors while accessing transportation services. To address these challenges, SDG 11.2 promotes affordable and sustainable transportation systems, with access to public transport as a key indicator. In Ghana, public transport is provided by buses, minibuses (trotro) and car taxis. However, the dynamics of public transport in Ghana have changed since the advent of tricycles as a mode of public transport. Tricycles have gained popularity among urban commuters due to deficiencies in transportation infrastructure, regulations, heavy traffic, and high fares associated with traditional modes. Yet, the long-term sustainability of tricycles as a public transport solution remains uncertain. This study investigates the evolving dynamics of public transport in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), examining the evolution, adoption factors, and public opinions regarding tricycles as a sustainable transport option. Furthermore, it delves into the legal and institutional framework of tricycle transport services in urban Ghana. Employing a mixed-method approach integrated in rational choice theory and Alphonzo's (2005) social-ecological framework, data were collected through a survey involving 610 users and riders. In addition, qualitative insights were gathered from 40 participants which included government transport officials through in depth and key informant interviews as well as observation. Accessibility emerged as the foremost factor influencing tricycle adoption, while safety ranked as the least significant. Over 90% of respondents attributed the proliferation of tricycles to factors like serving underserved routes, ability to move through alleys, affordability, unemployment, and the high costs of alternative modes. The most notable challenges discovered included rivalry with other transport network operators, reckless riding and poor licensing. Regulatory institutions such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and the Ghana Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (GP-MTTD) were found to be scrupulously carrying out their responsibilities to promote sustainable urban transportation, but greater coordination is required to solve the dilemma of public tricycle transport operation. In order to prevent accidents and effectively control their operation, a revision of LI 2180 is recommended, in addition to interim strict adherence to traffic regulations and training.