The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has disputed assertions that all vehicles under the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) operations have been grounded, stating that 33 buses are working, but 21 are damaged.
The managers disclosed that out of the 60 buses received, five were completely burnt in suspected arson, and one had an accident and was damaged beyond repairs.
The branch manager of BRT-Ayalolo, Sampson Adu Larbi, added that most of the grounded buses were brought from Accra with minor faults, which demanded the supplier’s attention.
In 2018, three BRT buses were brought to Kumasi for piloting. Later in the year, additional 57 buses were supplied.
Managers say Kumasi was not part of the initial plan of the Bus Rapid Transport, hence the challenges in management.
Access to bus parking space and a terminal at the central business district for boarding became a major hindrance.
Amidst the difficulties, STC Ghana granted them a parking space at their Oforikrom yard.
Mr Larbi further explained that competing with other commercial vehicles has been challenging, but the company successfully manages 33 of the buses in Greater Kumasi.
Kumasi Mayor, Samuel Pyn, added that the BRT managers expect World Bank support to get a dedicated route for the buses, including a terminal at Sokoban, to operate fully in Greater Kumasi.
Meanwhile, there are no plans to get the 21 grounded buses back on the roads. Some of their tyres and other parts are removed.
