The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in Ghana has called for measures to regulate daily financial targets imposed on commercial drivers by vehicle owners. According to the NRSA Director, Abraham Amaliba, excessive targets force drivers to work long hours, leading to fatigue and increasing the risk of road crashes. This has become a pressing concern, especially during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
The NRSA's call for regulation is part of its efforts to engage transport operators, drivers, and stakeholders across the country to reduce road crashes. During an engagement with transport union leaders at the New Tema Station, Lapaz, and Circle in Accra, Mr. Amaliba emphasized the need for stakeholders to pay attention to the working conditions of commercial drivers. He stressed that high daily targets create conditions that can lead to fatigue and ultimately road crashes.
The NRSA Director highlighted the growing practice of using designated bus stops as commercial spaces, which creates safety risks for motorists and pedestrians. When traders occupy bus stops, it can lead to congestion and make it difficult for commercial vehicles to stop properly and for passengers to board and alight safely. The various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) have a responsibility to ensure that bus stops are not turned into trading centers.
Mr. Amaliba explained that the occupation of bus stops by traders can create congestion and safety risks. He added that the assemblies must take action to ensure that bus stops are used for their intended purpose. The NRSA is working to address these issues and reduce road crashes during the festive season.
The Welfare Chairman of the New Tema Station, Nii Commey, commended the NRSA for engaging transport unions as part of its road safety campaign. He highlighted some challenges confronting drivers and transport operators at the station and called for continued collaboration between the Authority, transport unions, and local assemblies.
The NRSA says sustained collaboration with transport operators and other stakeholders remains critical to reducing road crashes and ensuring safer roads during the festive season. The Authority's efforts aim to address the root causes of road crashes and promote a culture of road safety in Ghana.
The NRSA's call for regulation of daily targets imposed on commercial drivers is part of its broader strategy to reduce road crashes and promote road safety. By engaging with transport operators, drivers, and stakeholders, the Authority aims to create a safer road environment for all users.
Key points
- The NRSA has called for regulation of daily financial targets imposed on commercial drivers to reduce road crashes.
- The Authority is working to address the growing practice of using designated bus stops as commercial spaces, which creates safety risks.
- Sustained collaboration with transport operators and stakeholders is critical to reducing road crashes and ensuring safer roads during the festive season.
