Tanker drivers suspend strike following engagement with Bostenergies over Kumasi Depot concerns

BOSTenergies has moved to address concerns over damaged loading infrastructure and inadequate parking space at its Kumasi Depot, averting a planned three-day strike by fuel tanker drivers.

The concerns, which had raised the prospect of disruptions to tanker operations, centre largely on the condition of a loading arm at the depot and limited parking capacity at the Kumasi Bulk Road Vehicle (BRV) Park.

According to BOSTenergies, management was already aware of the issues and had begun taking steps to resolve them before the tanker drivers announced their intention to strike.

The company said it had engaged a contractor to replace the damaged loading arm, with the work expected to restore the facility to the required operational, reliability and safety standards.

Despite the challenge, BOSTenergies said the Kumasi Depot remains operational and is currently meeting market demand through its existing loading arms.

The parking situation, however, remains a major concern for tanker operators.

BOSTenergies acknowledged that the existing BRV Park does not provide sufficient space for the number of Bulk Road Vehicles serving the depot. To address the problem permanently, the company said it had previously acquired land for the development of a dedicated parking facility with a capacity of 200 trucks.

The company has now awarded a contract for construction of the new facility.

The planned expansion is expected to increase parking capacity and reduce congestion associated with tanker operations at the Kumasi Depot.

In the meantime, BOSTenergies said it continues to lease a third-party facility to provide additional parking for BRVs while construction of the new 200-truck facility is completed.

Strike suspended

The developments followed engagement between BOSTenergies and representatives of the tanker drivers’ union.

BOSTenergies said it had provided assurances on the measures being implemented to address the concerns raised by the drivers.

Following the engagement, the tanker drivers agreed to suspend their planned three-day strike and continue discussions with management while the outstanding issues are addressed.

The company said it recognises the critical role tanker drivers play in the distribution of petroleum products across Ghana.

“The Company values the important role played by tanker drivers in the efficient distribution of petroleum products across the country and remains committed to constructive engagement with them and their representatives.”

BOSTenergies added that it would continue working with the tanker drivers, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and other relevant stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the challenges.

“BOSTenergies will continue to work collaboratively with the tanker drivers, the NPA and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the concerns raised are addressed in a sustainable and responsible manner.”

The immediate suspension of the strike means tanker operations at the Kumasi Depot can continue while the loading-arm replacement and construction of the new parking facility progress.

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Deborah Naa Momo Annang

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