The initiative, which began on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, is being implemented during peak commuting periods, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The arrangement is being implemented by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs in collaboration with the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service and the Department of Urban Roads.

Under the system, designated sections of roads are temporarily configured to allow authorised Aayalolo buses to travel in the opposite direction of normal traffic flow, giving them priority through congested areas.

The official government announcement initially identified three corridors—Amasaman–Accra, Adenta–Accra and Kasoa–Accra—for the intervention. The Ghana News Agency, however, reported that the system covers four corridors, adding Pokuase–Accra.

The designated contra-flow lanes are reserved exclusively for Aayalolo buses. Private cars, taxis, trotros and other unauthorised vehicles are not permitted to use them. Police officers are being deployed at strategic locations and major intersections to manage traffic and enforce compliance.

The government says the initiative is intended to reduce travel times, improve the punctuality and reliability of Aayalolo services and encourage greater use of mass public transportation.

Local Government Minister Mahama Ayariga has also said Aayalolo buses will operate according to fixed schedules during peak hours, regardless of passenger numbers. The aim is to make departure times predictable so commuters can plan their journeys with greater certainty.

The initiative follows traffic simulations conducted with relevant transport and road authorities. GAPTE has said an earlier trial demonstrated the potential of contra-flow arrangements to significantly reduce journey times on congested routes.

Government has appealed to motorists, commercial transport operators, pedestrians, businesses and residents along the affected routes to cooperate with traffic officers and comply with temporary traffic arrangements.

The contra-flow system forms part of broader efforts to improve public transportation and address congestion within the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area.

Photo courtesy: Information Service Department, Ayalolo buses