Traffic congestion: Contractors halt Accra–Tema motorway diversion

Contractors on the Accra–Tema Motorway expansion project have temporarily suspended a traffic diversion at the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange after heavy congestion left drivers stuck in long queues for several hours.

The diversion was introduced to allow engineers to widen the bridge at the interchange, which is being expanded from four lanes to ten. The project involves adding three lanes on each side of the bridge to improve traffic flow along one of the country’s busiest routes connecting Accra and Tema.

Project Manager Ben Sackey said that while traffic studies were conducted before the diversion, the actual impact on the roads exceeded expectations. “The level of congestion we experienced was far beyond what our simulations projected,” he noted. “Had we continued with this traffic plan, commuters could have faced severe delays for months.”

The decision to halt the diversion will allow the project team to reassess traffic management measures and explore alternative solutions that keep construction moving while reducing inconvenience to motorists. Authorities are expected to meet soon to finalize a revised plan for the interchange.

Motorists have been advised to follow temporary traffic guidance and remain patient as contractors work to implement a safer and more efficient traffic flow system. Sackey emphasized that commuter safety and minimizing disruption remain priorities as the project progresses.

The Accra–Tema Motorway Expansion Project is a key infrastructure initiative aimed at easing congestion, improving travel times, and supporting economic activity along this heavily trafficked corridor. Once completed, it is expected to significantly enhance road capacity and safety for both passenger and commercial vehicles.

The suspension highlights the challenges of managing traffic in high-density urban areas and underscores the importance of adaptable planning for major roadworks. Contractors remain committed to completing the project while minimizing disruption to daily commuters.