Honorary Vice-President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has expressed concerns about Ghana's automated traffic enforcement system, TraffiTech-GH. The system, operated by the Ghana Police Service, uses technology to detect traffic violations. Simons questions the revenue-sharing arrangement and transparency in the contract. He argues that public safety must not be overshadowed by commercial interests. The system commenced full implementation on November 1.
TraffiTech-GH uses fixed and mobile cameras, radar technology, sensors, and handheld devices to detect traffic violations. Evidence captured is reviewed before Electronic Notices of Violation (ENVs) are sent to vehicle owners. The system aims to reduce road crashes. However, Simons argues that greater scrutiny is required to ensure public safety. He made these comments on Accra-based JoyNews' Newsfile programme on November 7.
Simons questioned the decision to allow private sector partners to receive a share of revenue generated from traffic fines. The arrangement provides for private partners to receive 40 per cent of revenue, while the government takes 60 per cent. Simons argues that this could create an incentive to prioritise revenue generation over changing motorists' behaviour. He demands that the government make contractual details public.
Simons called for the government to provide information about the agreement with private companies involved in the project. He wants to know how the arrangement will protect the public interest. Simons noted that private companies are driven by profit motives, not public interest. Therefore, the government must balance public interest and private profit motives delicately.
The policy advisor questioned the adequacy of road signage and markings. He argued that the government should have addressed these infrastructure requirements before introducing the enforcement system. Simons warned that without strong controls, cameras may be adjusted purely to raise revenue. This could lead to a situation where motorist behaviour doesn't change.
Simons requested that the government make the investment obligations of private partners public. He also wants to know about the placement of enforcement cameras and responsibility for providing road signs and other supporting infrastructure. The government has postponed the system's rollout twice, allowing for further public education.
The implementation of TraffiTech-GH has raised concerns about road safety and commercial interests. Simons' comments highlight the need for transparency and public scrutiny. The government must address these concerns to ensure that public safety is prioritised.
Key points
- The revenue-sharing arrangement between the government and private sector partners has raised concerns about prioritising revenue generation over road safety.
- Bright Simons demands that the government make contractual details public to ensure transparency and protect the public interest.
- The adequacy of road signage and markings has been questioned, highlighting the need for infrastructure improvements before introducing the enforcement system.
