Commercial transport operators have issued a strong warning to government and city authorities, threatening to embark on a nationwide strike on May 19, 2025, if urgent action is not taken to address the growing issue of street trading on roads, pavements, and bus stops.

At a press briefing, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Mr. Samuel Amaoh, raised alarm over what he described as the increasing encroachment of traders onto areas designated for vehicular and pedestrian use.

He said the situation poses a significant threat to public safety and disrupts smooth traffic flow across major cities.

Despite the Road Traffic Regulation 2012 (LI 2180), which prohibits trading on roads and pavements, these activities persist unchecked.

This not only endangers lives but also worsens congestion, especially in busy urban centres,” Mr. Amaoh said.

The Ghana Private Roads Transport Union(GPRTU) also called for urgent interventions to establish designated parking spaces and improve traffic management systems.

As part of the planned May 19 protest, the union is inviting the Ministers of Transport, Roads and Highways, Local Government and Religious Affairs, Trade and Industry, and Interior to join the demonstration and participate in discussions aimed at finding a long-term solution.

Adding his voice, the Deputy Secretary of the Concern Drivers Association, Asonaba Nana Weridu, stressed that the protest is not intended to disrupt economic activity but to advocate for safety, order, and a working environment where both transport operators and traders can coexist without conflict.

“We want sanity on the roads, not chaos. It’s about ensuring everyone can do business in a safe and organised space,” he said.