Cape Coast: With immediate effect, commercial tricycle riders are not to take more than two passengers or risk arrest and prosecution, the Central Regional Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTU) has cautioned. Chief Superintendent Albert Fii Ochil, the Central Regional MTTD Commander, emphasized the legal implications of carrying more than two passengers, highlighting the issue of overloading.
According to Ghana News Agency, Chief Superintendent Ochil explained that although the seats of the tricycles are designed to accommodate up to four passengers, the vehicles are not equipped to handle such capacity safely. He referenced the guidelines set by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), asserting that the vehicle's capacity is determined by official registration documents and legal standards.
He stated, "We are going to ensure that if you are going to do the Pragya, then you take two people in addition to yourself to make three because that is what the law permits. If you are caught with more than two passengers, you will be apprehended and charged accordingly." Chief Supt Ochil recounted an incident where he arrested a tricycle carrying 11 passengers, which was subsequently taken to court. He suggested that such overloading contributes significantly to accidents.
The MTTD Commander underscored the importance of abiding by the law to ensure public safety, regardless of whether it seems reasonable to some. He clarified that exceeding the prescribed number of passengers compromises the vehicle's stability and safety, potentially leading to severe accidents.
In his statement, Chief Supt Ochil proposed that future modifications to tricycles should focus on restricting the seating arrangement to accommodate only two passengers, thereby aligning with the legal capacity limits.
