Accra: Mr Abraham Amaliba, the newly appointed Director General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), has pledged to enhance the enforcement of road safety laws to ensure that Ghana's roads are safer for all users. The initiative will be preceded by comprehensive education and sensitization campaigns aimed at road users to promote adherence to safety regulations.
According to Ghana News Agency, during a road inspection exercise at pedestrian crossings in Tetegu, Kawukudi, Lapaz, and Atomic Junction in Accra, Mr Amaliba expressed concern over the high rate of pedestrian knockdowns, emphasizing the importance of strict enforcement of pedestrian bridge usage. He stressed that these bridges are crucial for ensuring road safety and that government investments in such infrastructure must not be wasted.
Mr Amaliba stated, 'My handing over note tells me that we have high incidents of pedestrian knockdowns. And so, I decided that the first thing to do is to visit some of these foot bridges. These foot bridges help to ensure that safety on our roads is guaranteed because people cross the roads whilst vehicles are speeding.' This inspection marks part of his initial activities in his new role, following his appointment as Director General, succeeding Mr David Osafo Adonteng.
During the inspection, Mr Amaliba engaged with road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and transport unions, to educate them on safety practices. He urged adherence to road regulations such as speed limits, seatbelt use, and wearing helmets and protective clothing. He called on union leaders to organize periodic training for members to enhance their understanding and compliance with road safety issues.
Mr Amaliba emphasized the need to address pedestrian indiscipline alongside driver misconduct. He noted that road safety compliance notices and surcharges, which have been underutilized, will be activated under his leadership. He stated, 'There's a new sheriff in town. The roads must be safe for all of us. When a family leaves home and says 'goodbye', it mustn't mean that they may not come back. It must mean that, for now, he's saying 'goodbye', and he'll return. Often, we find people leaving home and do not return.'
He also announced plans to collaborate with the Ghana Education Service to integrate road safety education into school curricula. Mr Amaliba explained that while punitive measures would target habitual offenders, educating the younger generation is essential to fostering a culture of road safety awareness. 'Some people have already developed their habits. They are the ones that will have to be punished. But those who are young and are yet to come up and be on their own when walking, we will need to give them education,' he said, adding that he would soon engage with the Ministry of Education on this initiative.
During the inspection, Mr Amaliba expressed concerns about the poor state of some road infrastructure, including faded road markings and non-functional traffic lights. He assured the public of NRSA's commitment to work with the Department of Urban Roads and other agencies to restore all faded road markings, particularly on the George Walker Bush Highway. Furthermore, he pledged to collaborate with the Electricity Company of Ghana to repair and install streetlights in areas where poor visibility contributes to road accidents.
In addition, Mr Amaliba engaged with transport unions and commercial motorbike (Okada) riders, urging compliance with road regulations. He acknowledged the ongoing discussions regarding the legalization of commercial motorbike operations and advised riders to prioritize safety while awaiting government decisions. He reiterated the strict regulatory measures that may follow any potential legalization of Okada operations, including safety training, uniform identification, and licensed number plates.
Mohammed Tijani, the National Chairman of the Okada Board, congratulated Mr Amaliba on his appointment and assured him of their cooperation in promoting road safety. He also appealed to the Government to review licensing fees and address challenges with insurance claims.
