GRDA Dismisses TUC and Railway Workers’ Union Claims Over Tema–Mpakadan Line

The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has dismissed claims by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Railway Workers’ Union of the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL) suggesting that salary arrears and labour concerns could affect the commencement of operations on the new Tema–Mpakadan Standard Gauge Railway Line.

On September 24, the TUC cautioned the Ministry of Transport and the GRDA against starting passenger services without addressing workers’ grievances. This came after GRDA announced that services on the corridor will officially begin on October 1, 2025.

Earlier, on September 17, the Railway Workers’ Union had notified the Ghana Police Service of its intention to embark on a nationwide strike and picketing exercise on September 30, 2025.

GRDA’s Response

In a statement, the GRDA described the threats as misplaced, stressing that attempts to “conflate GRCL’s internal management failures with the lawful mandate of the GRDA” could undermine the $447 million national investment in the project.

Citing the Railways Act, 2008 (Act 779), the Authority reiterated that it is the legally mandated body to develop and regulate railway assets, including the operationalisation of new lines. It explained that the Tema–Mpakadan line, completed in December 2024, is now ready to commence proof-of-revenue services in line with international standards and government directives.

The Authority also revealed that:

• GRCL has no licence to operate on the line.
• GRCL lacks the rolling stock required for standard gauge operations.
• GRCL has not trained staff qualified to manage the line.
• Seventeen (17) entities have already applied for operating licences under the open access model, with GRCL not among them.

Criticism of GRCL

The GRDA accused GRCL of persistent mismanagement, citing:

• Defective procurement processes.
• Frequent derailments on the Western Line.
• Illegal sale of assets.
• Poor maintenance practices despite heavy government investment.

It further posed tough accountability questions to GRCL on the use of funds, the sale of equipment, and questionable contracts.

Security Concerns

The GRDA also noted recent incidents of vandalism against signalling and point machines, warning that the timing of such acts coincided with union threats. It cautioned that the TUC and its affiliates would be held responsible for any sabotage.

Strategic Importance of the Line

Reaffirming its commitment, the Authority highlighted that the Tema–Mpakadan line is a strategic national asset, linking Tema Port to Buipe via the Volta Lake, and extending to Burkina Faso through the Tema–Ouagadougou corridor.

“The GRDA remains resolute in fulfilling its mandate and safeguarding the nation’s investment for the benefit of all Ghanaians,” the statement concluded.

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