"NRSA unveils 'Traffitech' to curb road violations as 'okada' legalization nears"

The Acting Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Abraham Amaliba, has disclosed that a new initiative called "Traffitech" is in the pipeline, pending the amendment of specific provisions in the Road Traffic Regulations 2012 (L.I. 2180), namely Section 128 (1), (2), and (3).

Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues Amaliba explained that Traffitech will revolutionize traffic law enforcement by issuing instant spot fine notifications via SMS to offenders, eliminating the need for physical police stops.

According to Amaliba, the implementation of Traffitech hinges on the approval of the proposed legal amendments currently under review by a 13-member committee established by the Minister for Transport. 

The committee's mandate is to assess the possibility of legalizing and commercializing the use of motorcycles and tricycles (commonly known as Okada and Pragya) in Ghana. Their final report will be submitted to Parliament for consideration.

He revealed that the system will incorporate speed cameras installed on major roads and city streets to track vehicle and pedestrian behavior, helping to reduce both traffic congestion and road rule violations.

Amaliba emphasized that with the eventual legalization of motorcycle operations, it will be illegal for riders to disregard traffic rules, such as bypassing traffic queues. As part of the reforms, extensive public education campaigns will be launched to inform both Okada riders and other road users about their responsibilities and rights.

Amaliba concluded by stating that promoting respect and discipline on the roads will be crucial in easing congestion and improving overall traffic flow.