Ghana’s Electric light rail transportation system to be out doored in Kumasi

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Kumasi is set to become the first city in Ghana to have an Electric Light Rail Transportation (Tram System) as part of the Ghana government’s effort to ease traffic congestion

The Tram System, it is one of the sophisticated systems of transport found mostly in Europe. The system operates on a rail that travels on tramway tracks on a public urban street. The technology is currently being developed by Knights by the Czech Republic in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of Railway Development.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Knights, Dr Karl Laryea disclosed this at the launch of company’s 25th anniversary in Accra.

Dr Laryea, explained the tram system was aimed at decongesting the city of Kumasi and also to pave way for easy flow of traffic. The tram system, he added, would reduce travel time and improve the quality of the mode of travel currently available to commuters in Kumasi.

To make this project a success, Dr Laryea said there was the need for training for locals. He explained; Knights a.s. of the Czech Republic has facilitated the signing of an MoU between KNUST and the Czech Technical University in Prague for training of Ghanaian professors and technicians

These professionals to be trained in the Czech Republic would also teach Ghanaian students in the Engineering and Transportation faculties of the KNUST how to operate and maintain the tram system. In a speech read on his behalf, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr Kwesi Amoako Atta, commended Knights.a.s for their contribution to Ghana’s economic growth.

He said with the support and assistance from the company, Ghana had benefited from a number of interest free loans which had led to the establishment of many projects, particularly the bridge projects.

For his part, the Trade Attaché at the Czech Embassy in Ghana, Mr Matej Denk, said the Czech government was more committed in deepening their partnership with Ghana.