The National Road Safety Commission has called for stakeholder consultation on the recent calls for the revision of the ban on the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes.
Per the Ghana Road Traffic Regulations, the use of motorcycles popularly known as “Okada” is illegal, but various interest groups have mounted pressure on the government to legalise the practice.
Speaking to Citi News, Director of Planning and Programming at the NRSC, David Osafo Adonteng, says they would lead the review processes, and the introduction of measures to ensure the safety of the public.
He, however, noted that the number of crashes involving motorbikes was increasing. There were 3,903 motorcycle accidents in 2018.
“This is calling for us to take a second look at that particular population, see what is wrong and then we can deal with it using the law… We are coming up with consultative meetings with stakeholders. The law as it is, if it is something that cannot be enforce, then we have to look at it and do something about it.
Mr. Adonteng said the commission wants “to protect lives and properties. All operations; taxis, trotros, Ayalolos or even uber, it is to be done in a manner that we would not lose lives or get injuries.”
Stakeholder consultations have already begun for a possible review of the law.
According to the Transport Ministry which is leading the discussions, the Okada business has provided jobs for thousands of people and has also made commuting easy for traders, hence the need to reconsider the law.
The Road Traffic Regulations, 128, 2012 forbids the use of Motorcycles or tricycles for commercial purposes aside courier and delivery service.
Per the regulations, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, DVLA cannot register a motorcycle or tricycle for commercial use.
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By: Ann-Shirley Ziwu | citinewsroom.com | Ghana
