The government is exploring the possibility of introducing a light rail network along some of Accra’s busiest commuter routes as a long-term alternative to the Aayalolo bus contra-flow system.

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, said President John Dramani Mahama had asked him to begin discussions on the proposed rail option.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Mr Ayariga said he was preparing to engage the Railway Authority to examine the possibility of developing light rail services along four major routes connecting communities to central Accra.

He explained that the President considered the existing contra-flow arrangement useful but wanted government to explore a more permanent public transport solution for the future.

Government begins discussions on light rail

According to Mr Ayariga, the proposed light rail network would serve major routes that carry large numbers of commuters into and out of Accra.

However, the government has not yet announced a detailed route plan, construction timeline, estimated cost or funding arrangement.

The discussions are at an exploratory stage, with the Railway Authority expected to be involved in assessing the proposal.

Aayalolo contra-flow system reduces travel times

The proposed rail plan comes after the introduction of the Aayalolo contra-flow system, which allows designated buses to use selected lanes against the normal direction of traffic during peak hours.

The arrangement began on September 29, 2026, along four major corridors: Amasaman, Pokuase, Kasoa and Adenta.

The system operates from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for morning journeys into the city and from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for evening journeys out of the city.

The Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) has reported significant reductions in journey times on some of the routes.

Its Managing Director, Awudu Dawuda, previously said the journey from Adenta to central Accra, which could take about two hours, had reduced to an average of 28 minutes during the morning peak.

GAPTE also reported improvements on the Amasaman and Kasoa corridors. These figures are based on the agency’s own assessments.

A longer-term solution to Accra’s transport challenges

Accra continues to face heavy traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening rush hours, as commuters travel between residential communities and major business districts.

A light rail network could provide additional public transport capacity if the proposal progresses from discussions to a fully developed and funded project.

For now, the government is examining the feasibility of the idea. The existing Aayalolo contra-flow system remains in operation, and no decision has been announced to replace it immediately.

The next stage will depend on the discussions with the Railway Authority and the government’s assessment of the infrastructure, financial and technical requirements.

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