The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the government to provide detailed information regarding its recent acquisition of two refurbished diesel locomotives and 20 freight wagons, raising concerns about the equipment’s age, maintenance requirements and long-term operational value.
In a statement released by its Transport Sector Committee, the party acknowledged the investment as a welcome contribution to the development of Ghana’s railway network but stressed that public accountability must accompany such expenditures.
According to the NPP, the locomotives acquired are British Rail Class 56 units that were originally produced in the United Kingdom between 1976 and 1983 before undergoing refurbishment.
While describing the purchase as a potentially beneficial move for rail transport, the party argued that government officials had not provided enough information for citizens to determine whether the deal represented good value for money.
The committee expressed concern that many Class 56 locomotives have already been retired from service in several countries, prompting questions about future maintenance costs and the availability of replacement parts.
It therefore urged the government to disclose whether comprehensive maintenance contracts had been secured and whether arrangements had been made for technical support and capacity building for local railway engineers.
The NPP also questioned the readiness of the Tema-Mpakadan railway corridor to handle increased freight operations, asking whether adequate cargo-handling infrastructure exists and if a detailed market demand assessment was conducted before the acquisition.
The party contrasted the purchase with rail investments undertaken during the previous NPP administration, citing the procurement of diesel multiple units from Polish manufacturer PESA.
It noted that those trains were acquired alongside a five-year maintenance package and provisions for technology transfer to Ghanaian personnel.
Beyond the locomotives themselves, the committee highlighted concerns about funding for the broader railway sector. It pointed to the allocation of approximately GH¢70 million for rail infrastructure in the 2026 national budget, questioning whether the amount is sufficient to support the government’s stated plans for expanding the railway network, including the completion of the Western Railway Line.
The NPP concluded by urging authorities to address concerns surrounding sustainability, operational efficiency and commercial viability, insisting that the acquisition should be assessed on its long-term benefits rather than its symbolic significance.
