Takoradi, June 17, GNA – The Staff and Management of the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL) have appreciated the government for infusing huge capital into the company for the company to become self-reliant and efficient in its operations.
Due to this capital injection, GRCL, which hitherto was struggling with the payment of workers’ salaries, would now be able to take care of staff salaries and other related expenses up to the end of March, 2021.
A press release signed by the Managing Director, Mr. John Essel, said, “through the effort of the government, GRCL will, aside the capital injection into the company by the government, take delivery of track tools, spare parts and equipment to facilitate the rehabilitation of five locomotives and several mineral wagons to augment the current fleet of manganese trains that will further increase the haulage of manganese ore for export.”
The release, was however, silent on the quantum of amount given though it described it as substantial to bring back the sector on its toes.
Mr Essel applauded the government for its continuous support to the Ghana Railway Company and promised that management and the entire workforce would perform their roles to make sure the railways in Ghana were the most preferred mode of transportation in passenger and goods.
The Railways, started in 1901 as a department of the Gold Coast Service after the building of the harbour.
The Railways passed through several stages and were known as the Ghana Railway Corporation since its separation from the Port until the 7th of March, 2001, when it was issued with a Certificate of Incorporation by the Registrar of Companies, and became known as Ghana Railway Company Limited to allow for private sector participation and investments.
Meanwhile, decades of neglect and underfunding left the railway completely shattered, The Company currently has a total staff strength of 1,582, made up of 1,189 permanent staff and 393 casual Labourers.
The Akufo-Addo led government as part of its manifesto pledge, decided to recapitalize and revamp the ailing railways in the country.
“The Management and Workers of GRCL hereby thank the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the continuous support for GRCL”.
GNA