THE USE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES BY RESIDENTS IN THE ACCRA METROPOLITAN AREA

Public transport is crucial for the growth of any economy and trade, both of which are highly dependent on the conveyance of people and goods. However, there is, in many cities of developing countries, a major challenge of adjusting the existing system of mobility to the evolving transportation needs of the people. The situation in the Accra Metropolitan area provides a template of the circumstance in most of these city-regions. Against this backdrop, the study investigated the use of public transport service in the Metropolis through a comprehensive mode choice analysis, reasons for mode choice and challenges of urban transport accessibility.

Within a mixed method of research, 3 sub-metros of the Accra Metropolitan area were purposively selected, where 210 respondents were systematically obtained for the surveys. Additionally, 13 interviews were conducted with the various transport stakeholders.

The study reports trotro as the main transport mode choice of the residents and factors like income level, education level, age and occupation type other than factors like sex, household size and marital status, influence the modal choice of residents within the Metropolis. Also, respondents attributed their main reason for mode choice as due to economic reasons, timeliness, safety and personal security. Distance to transit points and terminals were also determining factors for modal choice. Waiting times at the terminals, time spent in vehicles before they set off all shape their choice and use of the transport services available. Major challenges associated with public transport included vehicular traffic delays, mechanical breakdowns and non-availability of services at salient periods.

The study recommends an improved BRT and a possible LRT system to aid mobility in the Metropolis. Also, development of arterial and access routes, road pricing, efficient traffic management and adoption of the Park and Ride system are put forward to ensure optimum accessibility of urban transport services within the Metropolis.