In a move aimed at promoting economic growth, job creation, and development, the government has announced plans to legalize the “okada” (commercial motorbike) business in the country.
The decision has been welcomed by some “okada” riders in the North Tongu district of the Volta region, who believe it would bring order and safety to their operations as others expressed their reservations.
Reiterating the government’s decision, Mr Abraham Amaliba, Acting Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), mentioned in an interview with the media that the government would enforce stringent regulations to ensure the safety of riders and passengers.
These regulations include the use of uniforms, reflectors, and prescribed helmets for riders and passengers. Additionally, commercial motorcycles would be required to have special number plates and licenses, and riders would be mandated to join unions to enhance accountability.
Some “okada” riders in the North Tongu district have expressed optimism about the government’s decision, citing the potential benefits of increased safety and reduced conflicts among riders. Mr Toklo Kwame Julius, a rider in Mepe, noted that the legalization of the business would help to eliminate undisciplined attitudes among riders and reduce the risk of accidents.
“We sometimes quarrel and fight among ourselves just because of a passenger. Everybody wants to go first. This even results in spiritual attacks from some colleagues. Due to that, some of my friends cannot even walk again and are now at home. So, I think the government’s decision would really help,” Mr. Julius said.
Another rider, Mr. Etsey Nayram Eflu from Battor, also expressed confidence that the reforms would avert accidents that have led to the death of many residents in the district. “I have been in the business for almost ten years, and I have seen how many tragic motorbike riders and passengers got involved in accidents all because of the lack of speed management. It has been our headache for a long time,” Mr Eflu said.
However, not all riders are pleased with the government’s decision. Some have expressed concerns that the installation of speed control gadgets and tracking systems would slow down their business and hinder their ability to respond to emergencies. “If these gadgets are installed on our bikes, we would just be crawling on the road. A ten-minute ride would now take 25 minutes, I guess. What if it’s an emergency? I don’t think that part would help us,” some riders lamented.
The government’s decision to legalize the “okada” business is part of its efforts to promote economic growth and development. As noted by President John Dramani Mahama, the “okada” business has provided employment opportunities for many young people, and its legalization would help to formalise the sector and ensure its safety and sustainability.
The move is also expected to reduce the number of accidents involving commercial motorcycles, which have been a major concern for road safety authorities.
Source: GNA
