By Frank Kwame Abbor, GNA
Ho (V/R), April 15, GNA – Mr Bismark Elorm Sackitey, Planning Manager at the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in Ho, says proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), are aimed at improving road safety in the country.
He said the proposed regulations seek to reduce the minimum age for operating commercial motorcycles from 25 to 21 years, in line with prevailing socio-economic realities.
“The proposal is intended to create opportunities for the youth while ensuring proper regulation and training within the commercial motorcycle sector,” Mr Sackitey explained.
He noted that the proposed amendments were still undergoing the required legislative processes and would only take effect after approval by Parliament.
“These changes are not yet law. They must go through Parliament before they can be fully implemented,” he stated.
Mr Sackitey also highlighted ongoing efforts by authorities to curb alcohol consumption among drivers, describing drink-driving as a major contributor to road crashes nationwide.
“Reducing drink-driving is a key priority because it continues to contribute significantly to road crashes across the country,” he said.
He said the Authority had also taken note of public concerns about over-speeding and the general disregard for road safety regulations by some drivers.
“Passengers have consistently complained about reckless driving behaviours, including excessive speeding and non-compliance with safety regulations,” he added.
Mr Sackitey indicated that a technical working group had been set up to assess the situation and recommend practical solutions to improve road safety.
He said the group comprises key institutions, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council, and the Ghana Standards Authority.
Mr Sackitey called for public cooperation, stressing that road safety was a shared responsibility among all road users.
“While institutions play their part, drivers, riders and passengers must also adhere to safety practices to reduce accidents,” he emphasised.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah