The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA), led by its acting CEO, Dr. Fredrick Appoh, conducted an inspection exercise on the Tema-Mpakadan rail line on March 15, 2025, as part of preparations for the operationalization of the line, scheduled for mid-next month. The exercise aimed to ensure the line’s readiness for passenger services from Tema to Adomi Railway station.

The inspection team utilized a utility truck and was accompanied by contractor AFCONS, staff of the Ghana Railway Company, and members of the media, commencing the program at 9:30 am and making several stops along the way. During the exercise, the team identified several concerns, including stolen bolts, trespassing, animal crossings, and pedestrian traffic on the rail line.

The team also observed that thieves had begun removing bolts from the rail line, and Dr. Appoh assured that measures would be put in place to address the issue. The team also engaged with local communities, visiting the bereaved family of a woman who was sadly knocked down by the utility truck at Badiako on 3rd March 2025.

The CEO and management presented the family with a donation of soft drinks, water, and cash, and pledged to mourn with them during the funeral. At Afienya Station, the team encountered a resident digging a drain to connect with the drain constructed for easy flow of water meant to protect the line. The team intervened to address the issue.

The exercise concluded at the Mpakadan rail head, where Dr. Appoh addressed the media, highlighting the President’s vision for a working railway system that operates 24/7, creates jobs for youth, boosts the local economy, and provides safe and convenient transportation.

Dr. Appoh emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating that residents and stakeholders along the right-of-way are being educated on the dangers of walking on the tracks or nearby. He assured that all stakeholders, including chiefs, churches, mosques, and schools, are being engaged to ensure cooperation.

The primary objective of the inspection exercise was to identify potential safety risks and take corrective measures to prevent train accidents and fatalities on the right-of-way. The inspection exercise was documented with photographs, marking the conclusion of the event.

The Tema-Mpakadan rail line is part of a larger project to improve connectivity between Tema Port and the northern regions of Ghana, involving the construction of a 97.6km standard gauge railway line, with six passenger stations and a freight terminal.

By Corporate Affairs Unit, GRDA.