The National Road safety Authority (NRSA), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), on Thursday, began an operation to enforce traffic regulations in the Western Region.
The exercise, which would include the checking of unauthorised lights fixed on vehicle, particularly heavy duty ones,was led by the Western Regional Commander of MTTD, Chief Superintendent Isaac K. Sorkpah, the Regional Director of DVLA, Mr Emmanuel Narh, and the Western Regional Manager of NRSA, Mrs Nana Akua Ansah.
Chief Sup Sorkpah told the Ghanaian Times that the team sensitised drivers on traffic regulations, and also distributed fliers on road safety to them.
He said at the Old Apremdo barrier, near Takoradi, drivers and passengers were educated on traffic regulations.
“Heavy duty truck drivers were found to be the worse violators of traffic regulation as most of them have fixed unapproved lamps on their vehicles, endangering the safety of other road users.” Chief SupSorpkah said.
He noted that drivers, who appeared ignorant of traffic regulations, suggested broader consultations with stakeholders, especially haulage truck drivers, to ensure safety on the roads.
Chief Sup Sorpkah said passengers supported the operation, saying “They suggested to the team to take the operation to the big haulage companies and to sustain the operation until all vehicles were only fitted with the approved lamps or lights to reduce accidents, particularly in the night. Drivers found to have breached the Act were made to voluntarily remove the gadgets.”
Chief Supt. Sorpkah said, the team educated passengers on COVID-19 safety protocol because some of them were not wearing nose masks.
He said: “No arrest was made as the team decided to start with awareness creation. The collaboration between stakeholders was very good. The operation would be continued this week. Indeed, the operation ended successfully and it will be sustained”
FROM CLEMENT ADZEI BOYE, TAKORADI
