The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has expressed concern over the rising number of deaths and injuries from road accidents in the Ashanti Region.
Recent data from the authority shows that about 441 deaths and over 4,000 road injuries have been recorded in the region as of September this year.
Ashanti Regional Assistant Planning Manager at the NRSA, Samuel Adu Gyimah, attributes the increase to weak enforcement of road traffic regulations and overspeeding. He made the remarks during a DVLA stakeholder engagement on the new number plate roll-out in the region.
“Yes, the numbers are increasing because of lack of enforcement in the region, but we hope that with the messages we are sharing through our media partners, people will start valuing life more than gold,” Mr. Adu Gyimah said.
He emphasised that speeding remains a major factor in the severity of injuries and deaths, urging motorists to observe posted speed limits, particularly in busy areas. Fatigue is another significant risk, he noted, urging drivers to take regular breaks on long trips and avoid driving when tired.
“In the Ashanti Region, overspeeding and fatigue are major causes. Many travelers pass through the center of Ghana on their way north or south, and by the time they reach the middle of the country, they are already exhausted,” he explained.
The NRSA is working with the Ghana Police Service’s Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) and other stakeholders to intensify enforcement and public sensitisation, warning that offenders will face prosecution. Passengers are also encouraged to report reckless driving. “Passengers should speak out when the driver is doing something that may cause accidents,” Mr. Adu Gyimah added.
National Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Nana Nimako Bresiama, also urged drivers to exercise caution as roads are expected to be busy during the festive period. He advised, “You cannot earn all the money you need in a short period, so drive safely and ensure passengers reach their destinations unharmed.”
