As Kumasi grapples with mounting traffic congestion in its central business district (CBD), PV Jantuah Boateng Dadson, a contender for the Chief Executive position of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), has presented an ambitious plan to address the issue.
The program, part of his broader “Action for Transformation of Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly” agenda, aims to improve mobility and enhance the city’s economic and social environment.
Kumasi’s CBD is plagued by severe vehicular and pedestrian traffic, creating daily frustration for residents, business owners, and visitors. Over the years, uncoordinated urban development—characterized by the construction of high-rise buildings without corresponding investments in road networks and parking facilities—has exacerbated the problem.
Recognizing the urgent need for action, PV. Jantuah has proposed a pragmatic and comprehensive solution to tackle traffic congestion while fostering sustainable urban growth.
Mr. Jantuah’s strategy focuses on modernizing the city’s infrastructure and implementing traffic management policies to ease congestion. The plan includes the following measures:
Dedicated Loading and Off-Loading Hours:
Trucks weighing over four tonnes will be restricted from entering the CBD during peak hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday). Instead, a loading park will be established on the periphery of the district to transfer goods to smaller vehicles for distribution within the CBD.
Modern High-Level Car Parks:
The KMA will partner with property owners to convert existing buildings into electronically managed, multi-level car parks. This will provide secure and convenient parking options, reducing the dependence on on-street parking and easing congestion.
Shuttle Transport ServicesShuttle services will operate from designated loading parks, enabling visitors to park their vehicles outside the CBD and travel to their destinations by shuttle. This initiative aims to significantly reduce vehicular congestion while generating revenue for the KMA through fare collection.
Electronic Paid On-Street Parking:
To regulate parking within the CBD, electronic payment systems will be introduced for on-street parking spaces. Drivers will use a Metropolitan Card or similar payment methods, with parking fees set slightly higher than those at off-street parking facilities.
Conversion of Streets to One-Way Traffic
Selected streets in the CBD will be converted into one-way routes to optimize traffic flow. This measure is expected to enhance mobility, increase available on-street parking, and improve safety for pedestrians and motorists.
PV Jantuah Boateng Dadson’s traffic decongestion plan is a bold and forward-thinking strategy to transform Kumasi into a more livable and economically vibrant city. By addressing the root causes of congestion, the plan promises to reduce travel times, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
Dadson’s commitment to Kumasi’s development stems from his extensive experience in governance, politics, and public administration. His innovative approach to tackling urban challenges and his ability to engage stakeholders position him as a strong candidate for the KMA Chief Executive role.
Supporters of Dadson argue that his appointment as KMA Chief Executive by President John Mahama would be a strategic decision, given his impressive credentials and transformative vision for Kumasi. They believe his leadership could usher in a renaissance for the city, marked by unprecedented growth, sustainable development, and prosperity.
With Kumasi’s continued expansion, stakeholders agree that prioritizing innovative solutions such as Dadson’s will be essential to securing a brighter and more sustainable future for the city and its residents.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
