The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has stepped up road safety sensitisation and enforcement activities across major highways in the Ashanti Region to promote responsible road use and ensure an accident-free Easter.
The exercise, which took place at Yawkwei on the Accra–Kumasi Highway and at Akumadan on the Kumasi–Techiman stretch, formed part of efforts to manage the anticipated surge in vehicular movement during the festive period.
Mr. Kwasi Agyenim Boateng, Ashanti Regional Head of the NRSA, said the initiative was aimed at educating drivers and passengers while enforcing compliance with road traffic regulations to reduce crashes.
He noted that excessive speeding remained a major concern along the highways, stressing that the intensified presence of enforcement teams would serve as a deterrent.
“We are witnessing a lot of speeding along these stretches, and this exercise is to ensure that drivers comply with speed limits and prioritise safety,” he said.
Mr. Boateng explained that the Authority was collaborating with stakeholders, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, to inspect vehicles and enforce regulations.
He disclosed that one of the key violations identified was the widespread use of unapproved lighting systems, particularly among commercial and heavy-duty vehicles.
“These illegal lights, especially when used at night, posed a serious danger to other road users. We are removing them and educating drivers on the need to use only approved lighting systems,” he stated.
The NRSA also raised concerns about the misuse of private vehicles for commercial purposes, noting that such practices undermined regulatory requirements, including proper registration, licensing, and insurance.
Additionally, the Authority identified poor tyre conditions, use of inappropriate licences, and general disregard for road safety rules as recurring offences.
Motorcycle riders were not left out, as the NRSA observed continued non-compliance with helmet regulations despite ongoing education campaigns.
Mr. Boateng emphasised that the goal of the exercise was to ensure the safety of all road users, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
He urged the public to act responsibly and strictly adhere to road traffic regulations.
“We want everyone to be safe and enjoy an accident-free Easter, not only in the Ashanti Region but across the country. All road users must play their part by complying with the rules,” he said.
The NRSA indicated that the intensified enforcement and sensitisation activities would continue throughout the Easter period to sustain compliance and minimise road traffic crashes.
