The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is set to crack down on unregistered excavators starting from the 1st of July, according to the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Julius Neequaye Kotey. In a recent interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. Kotey emphasized the importance of registering excavators and urged owners and contractors to comply with the regulations.
Mr. Kotey revealed that a total of 5,902 excavators have already been registered across various DVLA offices nationwide. The breakdown of registered excavators from different offices is as follows:
– Haatso – 1,705
– Kumasi – 252
– Tema – 2,327
– Weija – 893
– Koforidua – 215
– Takoradi – 70
– Tamale – 43
– Bolgatanga – 8
– Wa – 28
– Techiman – 45
– Kotunse – 24
– Sunyani – 18
– Cape Coast – 3
– Obuasi – 100
– Tarkwa – 13
– Ho – 3
– Bekwai – 8
– Nkawkaw – 16
– Winneba – 8
– Axim – 4
– Wenchi – 18
– Sefwi Wiaso – 1
– Mampong – 14
– Bole – 0
– Agona – 0
– Adenta – 4
– Head Office – 0
– Accra (Spintex) – 3
– Akatsi – 3
– Kintampo – 7
– Akyem Oda – 28
– Somanya – 1
– Offinso – 4
– Guaso – 0
– Dunkwa – 24
– Hohoe – 0
– Denu – 8
– Effiduase – 2
Mr. Kotey also mentioned that the DVLA has been collaborating with key institutions such as the Inspector General of Police, Director-General of the CID, Commissioner of Customs, Ministry of Transport, Minerals Commission, and Ports and Harbours Authority in preparation for the enforcement exercise.
Before an excavator can be registered, the company must obtain clearance from the Minister for Transport. Mr. Kotey emphasized that no excavator will be registered without clearance from the Minister, ensuring that only approved companies are registered.
Furthermore, Mr. Kotey highlighted the importance of the registration initiative in combating illegal mining activities. He mentioned that all excavators seized from illegal mining sites were found to be unregistered with the DVLA in the past. With the current registration system in place, it is now easier to trace excavators back to their owners or importers, aiding in the fight against illegal mining.
In conclusion, Mr. Kotey stressed the significance of the DVLA’s initiative in protecting the environment and water bodies from the destructive effects of illegal mining activities. The crackdown on unregistered excavators is a crucial step in combating galamsey and preserving the natural resources of Ghana.
