Metro Mass Transit Limited (MMT) says it has stepped up preparations ahead of the Christmas season to ensure safety, comfort, and reliable services for passengers, even as the company continues to struggle with a major drop in its active fleet.
According to the Managing Director, Mr. Kale Cesar Esq, the festive period comes with high pressure on transport services as many people travel for holidays and special activities, making efficient operations essential at this time.
Mr. Cesar explained that MMT currently operates between 115 and 120 buses daily, but its overall fleet has dropped drastically from over 500 routed buses to a little above 100 buses in active service. He said many buses have broken down, with some requiring major repairs such as engine replacements. Although the company’s workshops are working to add at least 30 more buses for the Christmas period—through repairs, maintenance, and fresh facelifts—the fleet remains far below what is needed to meet national demand.
The shortage has also affected revenue, with the company generating GH¢14 million to GH¢15 million monthly, nearly double last year’s figure but still below the over GH¢20 million that should be collected if the full fleet was functional. To address this, Mr. Cesar revealed that MMT is partnering private investors to acquire new buses. Three companies have already placed orders, including deliveries of Toyota Hiace, Coaster buses, and about 300 Isuzu buses from Egypt, with the first 100 expected between January and February. Discussions are also ongoing with long-bus manufacturers such as VDL and Mercedes-Benz.
In addition, management emphasized the government’s support, saying: “His Excellency the President vission is to retool MMT with more fleet of Buses to improve efficiency, accessibility and affordable of public transport services in the country. Additionally, Management is also collaborating with other strategic partners to expand the fleet of Buses up to 1000 by the end of next year. The government in this light is Helping MMT to acquire 500 fleet of Buses from now up the middle of next year.”
On safety, the Managing Director said all MMT drivers are professionally trained and hold the required License F before joining the company. The technical department is conducting refresher training to strengthen safety awareness, especially during the festive season. Drivers and conductors who operate safely this Christmas will receive special incentive packages as part of efforts to promote discipline on the road.
Mr. Cesar assured the public that MMT buses remain safe, reliable, and professionally operated, with low accident records. They encouraged passengers to trust the company’s preparations as MMT works to protect travelers while gradually restoring its national fleet. Management hopes to operate 1,000 buses by the end of next year and ultimately reach 2,000 buses to cover all routes and improve nationwide accessibility.
