Tema-Accra bound train derails after collision with stray cattle at Avenor

A passenger train operating on the Tema–Accra railway line derailed on Thursday morning after colliding with stray cattle near Avenor, leaving dozens of commuters stranded and disrupting rail transport services along one of the capital’s busiest commuter routes.

The accident reportedly occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m., shortly after the train departed the Avenor station heading toward the Odaw Station.

According to preliminary reports, two cows wandered onto the railway tracks and were struck by the moving train, causing several carriages to derail. The sudden impact forced rail operators to suspend the journey immediately for safety reasons.

Passengers onboard the train were asked to disembark following the derailment, resulting in temporary transportation difficulties for many commuters travelling between Tema and Accra during the morning rush hour.

Authorities confirmed that the two cattle involved in the collision died instantly.

Although no fatalities or major injuries among passengers had been officially reported at the time of filing this report, the incident caused significant disruption to railway operations and raised fresh concerns over safety along sections of the Accra–Tema rail corridor.

The derailment has reignited debate over the increasing presence of stray animals, unauthorised crossings, and encroachment activities along railway lines in parts of the capital. Transport and safety experts have repeatedly warned that such developments pose serious operational and public safety risks to Ghana’s growing rail transport network.

Commuters affected by the disruption were forced to seek alternative transportation options, leading to delays and congestion on nearby roads during peak commuting hours.

Railway authorities are expected to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, including how the cattle gained access to the rail corridor and whether additional safety barriers or monitoring systems may be required.

Transport observers say the incident highlights the urgent need for stronger enforcement of railway safety regulations and improved protection of rail infrastructure as government continues efforts to modernise Ghana’s railway system.

Normal train services along the Tema–Accra route had not been fully restored at the time of reporting, with technical teams reportedly working to clear the tracks and assess damage caused by the derailment.

The Tema–Accra railway line remains one of the most important commuter rail services in the Greater Accra Region, transporting thousands of passengers daily and helping reduce road traffic congestion between the two cities.