Drivers unions strive to resolve road accidents

Accra, Jan. 9, GNA - Some branches of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), have proposed the institution of Drivers Awards to reward drivers who showed diligence and professionalism.

They also called for the institution of Prayer Day and the enactment of a law to prohibit the use of mobile phones whiles driving to reduce the number of road accidents.

These were in response to questions by Ghana News Agency to find solution to the blood-bath as a result of fatal road accidents. According to Nana Kweku Gyan II, Chairman of unions of the Cocoa Marketing Board, Cape Coast-Mankesim and Twifu-Praso-Elmina branches, the creation of the award day would inspire drivers to work with due diligence and professionalism.

Nana Gyan who is also the Tufuhene of Gomoa Ankamu and one-time driver to Mr S.S.Omani, former Inspector General of Police, said this would encourage drivers to have a good record through good conduct. He said for a driver to receive an award there should be a recommendation from a board made up of regional and branch chairmen of the GPRTU.

Mr Kwesi Appiah, Trustee of the Union, said the day should be climaxed with a Church service because that would win drivers to God and inculcated high moral standards in them.

Mr Baba Yaw, Station Master of the Circle-Adenta-Madina-Spintex Road, said the enactment of the law would make drivers stay focused on their work. He said those needing driving license should be given after two years experience as a driver's mate, adding that, the period should be sufficient to acquire experience in vehicle management and maintenance and be conversant with road signs and regulations. He appealed to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) re-open the road between Retina Hotel and the Odawna Lorry Station so as to ease the constant traffic congestion at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle.