The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has rolled out a comprehensive Easter road safety campaign in the Bono East Region, aimed at curbing road crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the festive season.
The campaign, launched Thursday with a special operation on the Techiman–Kumasi Highway, brings together enforcement teams from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
Joint enforcement and public education
Speaking during the launch, the Acting Regional Head of the NRSA, Jennifer Anaba, said the intervention was critical given the surge in vehicular movement, long-distance travel, and increased social activities that characterise the Easter period.
“We are aware that during this period there is increased vehicular movement, social activities and long-distance travel. Because of that, we have embarked on this exercise to reduce crashes, injuries and deaths,” Ms Anaba stated.
She explained that the campaign would run throughout the Easter holidays, with intensified public education on major highways and at transport terminals across the region. Activities include media engagements, direct interactions with drivers and passengers, as well as road safety education in churches.
Call for adherence to traffic regulations
Ms Anaba emphasised that road safety is a shared responsibility and urged all road users to comply with traffic laws and adopt safe practices. She cautioned drivers against speeding, dangerous overtaking, and drink-driving, while encouraging passengers to speak up when they observe reckless behaviour. Motorcyclists were also advised to wear protective gear and strictly adhere to road regulations.
DVLA raises concern over fatalities
The Bono East Regional Manager of the DVLA, Alfred Basum, expressed concern over the persistent loss of lives on Ghana’s roads during festive seasons.
“During festive seasons like this, especially Easter, a lot of lives are lost. But there is no reason for us to lose those lives,” he said.
While acknowledging that many commercial drivers seek to maximise profits due to increased travel demand, Mr Basum stressed that safety must not be compromised.
Drivers urged to remain alert
Mr Basum urged drivers to observe speed limits and remain alert at all times, emphasising the need for concentration, anticipation, and tolerance on the road.
He further reminded drivers to take regular breaks during long journeys, noting that standard road transport practice requires motorists to rest for at least 30 minutes after every four hours of driving. He also appealed to passengers to remain vigilant and speak out against unsafe driving practices.
Ms Anaba expressed optimism that the campaign would significantly reduce the number of crashes typically recorded during festive periods.
