By King Amoah.
In light of a troubling increase in road accidents across Ghana, particularly in areas such as Obuasi, Kumasi, and Accra, Peter Andy, a prominent advocate for road safety, has urged the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) to intensify road checks.
The rise in recent calamities on these critical routes has raised alarms concerning the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike, prompting calls from various stakeholders for urgent measures to stem this tide of mishaps.
The statistics are becoming increasingly alarming. The Ghana Police Service reported a significant spike in road traffic collisions in the past few months, indicating that the number of accidents is on an upward trajectory.
This troubling trend not only compromises the lives of motorists and passengers but also poses a significant risk to pedestrians, many of whom are often caught in the chaos of poorly managed traffic situations.
Obuasi, a bustling mining town known for its heavy traffic, has seen its share of horrific accidents, which have resulted in fatalities and serious injuries.
Similarly, the main roads connecting Kumasi, the Ashanti Region’s capital, and the national capital Accra have become notorious for their congestion and high accident rates.
The volume of vehicles, coupled with reckless driving behaviors, has created a perfect storm for disastrous incidents.
Peter Andy highlighted that many of these accidents stem from a lack of enforcement of existing traffic laws, poor road conditions, and a general disregard for road safety by some drivers.
“We cannot afford to wait any longer,” Andy emphasized. “It is time the NRSA steps up its efforts. More frequent road checks and strict enforcement of traffic regulations are crucial in curbing these accidents.
We need to send a clear message that recklessness on our roads will not be tolerated.”
The role of the NRSA in enhancing road safety cannot be overstated. Their mandates include monitoring and evaluating road safety measures, educating the public about safe driving practices, and implementing rigorous checks on vehicles to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
In response to Andy’s concerns, the NRSA acknowledged the recent surge in accidents and reiterated its commitment to addressing the issue.
“We recognize the urgent need for action,” a spokesperson for the NRSA stated. “In the coming weeks, we will be conducting more road checks and increasing our presence in hotspots known for high accident rates.
Our goal is to enforce traffic laws more effectively and educate the public about the importance of road safety.” the official stated.
