MSC LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

COURSE: TRANSPORT SYSTEMS AND STRATEGY

NAME: WENDY BAABA ASANTE

STUDENT ID: 22252266

TOPIC: Transportation is the key to national development. Transportation system management

includes the deployment of a set of strategies to maintain and improve the performance of the

existing transportation system.

Introduction

AFD and MEEDDM (2009) and Agyeman (2009) asserted that transportation, in its broadest

sense, encompasses the movement of goods and the transportation of people, as well as the flow

of labor and capital, and the provision of access to resources and opportunities. This definition is

inclusive of non-motorized systems, such as walking, cycling, and animal-drawn carts.

Transportation greatly shapes the development of a nation, acting as an essential pillar for

economic, social, and cultural progress. Strong transportation networks play an essential role in

facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services, thus driving economic growth,

enhancing connectivity, and promoting social cohesion. The management of transportation

systems entails the utilization of diverse methods to optimize the effectiveness of existing

infrastructure and services. A streamlined transportation network reduces transaction costs and

extends market access. Moreover, it enhances access to essential services such as healthcare,

education, and employment opportunities, thereby enhancing overall societal welfare.

Transportation holds a crucial position in Ghana's development strategy with the government

prioritizing investments in diverse transportation initiatives to enhance connectivity and

effectiveness. An exemplary case is the Tema Motorway construction, connecting the port city of

Tema to Accra, the capital. This infrastructural advancement has streamlined trade and logistics

operations, consequently fostering economic expansion within the area.

Discussion of findings

Efficient management of transportation systems necessitates the integration of various tactics

aimed at maximizing infrastructure utilization, enhancing safety measures, and mitigating

environmental consequences. Key strategies include:

1. Infrastructure Maintenance and Upgrades: Regular maintenance and upgrades of roads,

railways, ports, and airports are essential to ensure safe and efficient transportation. For

instance, Ghana's Road Fund is used to finance road maintenance projects across the

country, enhancing road quality and lifespan.

One of the most pressing of the projects highlighted is the expansion of the 24.7-km

Accra-Tema Motorway. This is a hugely strategically important road linking the capital

with the country’s largest port, and a notorious traffic bottleneck that sees 30,000-40,000

vehicles a day, up to half of them heavy goods vehicles coming to and from the port.

Easing traffic pressure on Tema is important not only for domestic reasons but also to

strengthen the overloaded port’s position as a trading center for Ghana’s landlocked

neighbors.

2. Traffic Management: Implementing intelligent traffic management systems, such as

traffic lights, road signage, and speed limits, helps in reducing congestion and improving
 road safety. The Kwame Nkrumah Interchange in Accra is an example of a traffic

management project that has eased traffic flow in the city.

3. Public Transport Improvement: Investing in public transport systems, including buses,

trains, and mass transit systems, encourages sustainable mobility and reduces reliance on

private vehicles. In Ghana, the private sector is responsible for providing about 95% of

public transport services through shared taxis and minibuses. However, relying on these

services leads to several problems such as traffic congestion, parking issues, pollution,

and low levels of transport safety, which ultimately reduce the quality of life for citizens

and hinder economic growth. Several studies have highlighted these issues, including

Wilson (2006), Litman (2012), TCRP (2009), Bremmer et al. (2009), and Trans-Africa

Consortium (2010). The government’s attempt to improve the public transport system

includes the introduction of The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Accra which to some

extent has enhanced urban mobility and reduced traffic congestion along key routes

4. Multi-modal Integration: Integrating different modes of transportation, such as road, rail,

air, and waterways, creates a seamless transport network and improves connectivity

between regions. The construction of the Boankra Inland Port in Ghana aims to integrate

rail and road transport, facilitating efficient movement of cargo from the port of Tema to

inland destinations.

5. Sustainable Practices: Promoting sustainable transportation practices, such as promoting

cycling, walking, and use of electric vehicles helps in reducing carbon emissions and
 mitigating environmental impacts. The introduction of electric buses in some Ghanaian

cities demonstrates efforts towards sustainable transportation solutions.

Ghana has made significant strides in transportation infrastructure development and

management. The expansion of the Kotoka International Airport in Accra has enhanced air

connectivity, supporting tourism and business travel. The construction of the Western Railway

Line from Takoradi to Kumasi aims to improve freight transportation and boost economic

activities in the Western and Ashanti regions.

Furthermore, the ongoing rehabilitation of major roads like the Eastern Corridor Road and the

Western Corridor Road demonstrates the government's commitment to improving road networks

and connectivity across the country. These infrastructure projects create employment

opportunities, stimulate economic growth in rural areas, and enhance regional integration.

Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, transportation is indeed the key to national development, and effective

transportation system management is essential for optimizing the performance of existing

infrastructure. Ghana's experiences with transportation infrastructure development and

management highlight the importance of strategic investments, sustainable practices, and multi-

modal integration in achieving economic growth, social development, and environmental

sustainability. Continued efforts to improve transportation systems will contribute significantly

to Ghana's overall development agenda.

References
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