By: John Justice Ahoto

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has activated a raft of operational measures to address significant landside congestion currently affecting the Port of Tema.

The Authority says the congestion is being driven partly by a substantial increase in import traffic, coupled with a corresponding rise in the movement of empty containers and road congestion.

According to GPHA, the challenges have resulted in delays in the evacuation of containers as well as the transfer of laden and empty containers.

The Authority noted that similar congestion challenges are being experienced at several ports across the West African sub-region.

In response, GPHA says it has placed relevant stakeholders on heightened operational alert and is working closely with shipping lines and terminal operators to ease the situation.

Measures being implemented include accelerating the evacuation of empty containers through increased vessel calls, strengthening truck deployment and improving container transfer operations.

The Authority is also optimising empty-container management, yard operations and traffic management to improve cargo flow and maximise available terminal capacity.

GPHA has further appealed to importers, clearing agents and cargo owners to expedite the clearance and evacuation of their consignments.

It says prompt clearance of cargo is critical to creating additional space within the port, improving operational efficiency and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of international trade.

The Authority says it is closely monitoring developments and will continue to implement additional interventions as necessary to restore normal operating conditions as quickly as possible.

GPHA has meanwhile assured the trading community and the general public of its commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient and competitive port system capable of supporting Ghana’s trade and broader economic growth.