Multi –million dollar World Bank Aayalolo BRT turns ‘BST’, compete for passengers with 'Trortro'

Ghana's Aayalolo Bus System, also known as the Quality Bus System (QBS), is losing its original purpose. This system was part of the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) project. It aimed to be a modern and efficient urban transport option. However, it now resembles ordinary commercial buses, called "trotro." The service has effectively become Bus Slow Transit (BST).

Launched in 2016, the project cost an estimated $95 million. Funding came from the World Bank. The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) was meant to provide fast transit using dedicated lanes. It was designed for routes connecting Accra with Amasaman, Ofankor, Adentan, Tema, and Kasoa.

Currently, standards are declining on key routes like Accra–Amasaman. Commuters have expressed concerns about Aayalolo drivers' behavior. Drivers now stop anywhere to pick up passengers instead of at designated stops. This practice goes against the original plan.

Buses frequently compete with regular vehicles, causing delays. Passengers report that drivers stop even when buses are full. This creates inconvenience and undermines efficiency goals.

For example, a bus from Amasaman should first stop at Achimota Overhead. Instead, drivers pick up passengers along the Accra–Nsawam highway. This blurs the line between BRT and regular transport services.

To seek clarity on this issue, Classfmonline.com contacted Aayalolo's customer care center at 0531088043. A representative answered but said the Public Relations Officer (PRO) was out for lunch until 1:00 p.m. Subsequent calls around 2:00 p.m. went unanswered.

As public concern grows, it remains unclear if GAPTE will restore Aayalolo to its intended function as a true BRT service. More updates will follow.