The Acting Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Abraham Amaliba, recently shared plans to introduce new regulations for Okada riders once the commercial use of motorcycles is legalised. In an interview on Hot Issues on TV3, Mr Amaliba revealed that Okada riders would be required to wear uniforms and reflective gear for easy identification. Additionally, they would undergo road safety education to prevent reckless riding, with legal consequences for those who violate the regulations.
Mr Amaliba also mentioned that the government plans to provide speed limit devices and trackers on motorcycles to monitor movements once operations are legalised. This initiative aims to prevent overspeeding and track the movement of riders for safety purposes. To ensure better organisation, Okada riders would be required to register under a union, making it easier for authorities to track any crimes associated with them.
Furthermore, District and Metropolitan Assemblies will need to designate specific areas as Okada stations within cities. This move is aimed at regulating the operations of Okada riders and ensuring safety for both riders and passengers. Mr Amaliba emphasized that the legalisation of Okada operations would only proceed once the NRSA and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) have established the necessary mechanisms and engaged the public on the new regulations.
The introduction of uniforms, reflective gear, speed limit devices, and trackers for Okada riders, along with registration under a union and designated stations, reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and orderliness in the commercial use of motorcycles. These measures are expected to bring a positive change in the operations of Okada riders and enhance road safety in Ghana.
