Mahama Orders Clear Markings for Contraflow Lanes in Accra

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, to ensure that designated contraflow lanes in Accra are properly identified and marked. This move aims to improve traffic management and facilitate the movement of public transport vehicles. The directive was disclosed by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, during an appearance on Joy FM's Super Morning Show on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

According to Mr Ayariga, the President wants the Roads and Highways Ministry to incorporate appropriate road markings into ongoing reconstruction projects and other relevant road improvement works. The markings are expected to clearly identify sections of designated roads that will be temporarily reserved for buses travelling in the opposite direction during specific peak periods. This arrangement is intended to make it easier for motorists to distinguish between ordinary traffic lanes and those reserved for the contraflow system.

The intervention is particularly important for the Ayalolo bus service, which is expected to benefit from dedicated road space to improve passenger movement during periods of heavy congestion. Under the proposed arrangement, selected lanes will be made available to buses travelling against the normal direction of traffic during designated operating hours. This will help to reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of public transportation in Accra.

The minister indicated that clear road markings would help prevent confusion among motorists and reduce the possibility of unauthorised vehicles entering the restricted sections. Accra continues to experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening rush hours, when commuters encounter lengthy delays along major transportation corridors. The contraflow arrangement is part of broader efforts by the government to improve the efficiency of public transportation.

However, its successful implementation will depend on adequate road signage, effective enforcement and public education to ensure that motorists understand the restrictions governing the designated lanes. The President's directive is therefore expected to place additional responsibility on the Roads and Highways Ministry to ensure that road reconstruction projects incorporate the necessary infrastructure to support the system.

The government is seeking to make the arrangement more predictable and orderly while improving the ability of public transport operators to move commuters through some of the capital's busiest roads. The clear markings will help to reduce accidents and improve the overall safety of the roads. The Ministry for Roads and Highways is expected to work closely with other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the contraflow system.

The contraflow system is part of the government's efforts to improve the public transportation system in Accra and reduce traffic congestion. The system is expected to be implemented in phases, with the first phase focusing on major transportation corridors. The government has assured the public that it will continue to work to improve the efficiency of public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in Accra.

Key points

• President John Dramani Mahama directs the Minister for Roads and Highways to ensure clear markings for designated contraflow lanes in Accra.
• The contraflow system aims to improve traffic management and facilitate the movement of public transport vehicles.
• The successful implementation of the contraflow system depends on adequate road signage, effective enforcement and public education.