#SONA2020: Standard gauge rail connectivity to be extended to Takoradi Port

President Nana Addo has hinted that a standard gauge line will be constructed into the Port of Takoradi to facilitate the haulage of bulk cargo. The project, according to President falls within government’s agenda of rehabilitating the Western Rail Lines.

He noted in his ‘State of the Nation’ address in parliament today, that the narrow gauge line that runs from Takoradi to Kojokrom will be converted into a standard gauge line.

President Nana Addo added that the contractor working on the Western Line, have been charged to continue the development of the standard gauge line from Manso to Huni Valley.

“To speed up the development of the line, contractors have been asked to develop a new standard gauge line to the Port of Takoradi, and to convert the Takoradi to Kojokrom narrow gauge line into a standard gauge line. And also to continue the development of the new standard gauge line from Manso to Huni-Valley” he said.

Most promising in his address, is the assurance of extending rail connectivity from Iduapriem to Kumasi of the Western Line.

“The Kumasi section of the Western line will receive attention this year. Since government is deciding to develop the Western Line from Takoradi to Kumasi, and from Kumasi towards Takoradi. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to announce that the development of the Kumasi to Iduapriem section of the Western Line will commerce this year” he explained.

Currently, the Ghana Railway Company Limited, have commenced passenger train service from Takoradi to Tarkwa. Daily traffic since the beginning of the free passenger service and the commercial passenger service, recorded an average of 500 passengers per day.