The Youth of Paga in the Upper East Region is urging government to expedite work on the proposed Paga Inland Port, warning that the growing number of heavy‑duty trucks parked along the main highway is becoming a major threat to lives and property.
According to the youth, the stretch is now routinely lined with long‑haul trucks, with some drivers forced to park on the nearby airstrip due to the absence of a designated holding area.
Speaking to Citi News, Chairman of the Paga Youth Movement Wenawome Duriyem Aborah said the strategic border town has seen a sharp rise in cross‑border trade following improved relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso — a development that has resulted in hundreds of cargo trucks passing through and parking within residential communities.
“Burkina Faso conducts a significant portion of its international trade through Ghana. As a result, the volume of trucks passing through Paga has increased considerably,” he said.
“The situation has become worrying. Trucks are parked everywhere, and some have even resorted to using the airstrip because there is no adequate parking space,” he added.
Mr. Aborah expressed concern that many of the trucks transport hazardous materials, including fuel, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other flammable substances — posing a significant risk to nearby communities.
“These trucks carry dangerous goods such as fuel, gas and other hazardous materials. If an accident occurs, it could trigger a major disaster because the road runs through the middle of the town. The consequences would be devastating.”
He appealed to government to prioritise the completion or upgrading of the inland port to provide a safe, secure parking facility for cargo trucks operating along the busy international corridor.
“I am appealing to government to urgently address the truck parking situation. If the inland port cannot be completed immediately, it should at least be upgraded to provide adequate parking space for these vehicles, away from residential communities.”
Mr. Aborah added that the inland port would not only enhance public safety but also unlock enormous economic opportunities for the Upper East Region.
“The development of the inland port will transform trade, create employment opportunities for young people, enhance regional integration and position Northern Ghana as a major commercial hub within the West African sub‑region.”
He further noted that the project would strengthen Ghana’s role as a gateway for Sahelian trade while supporting economic growth across northern Ghana.
— CitiNewsRoom
