The issue of road safety is of paramount importance in Ghana, as it directly affects the lives and well-being of our citizens. Pragia drivers play a vital role in our community’s transportation system. However, they often operate in conditions that pose significant road safety challenges. This report outlines an engagement session conducted with rickshaw (Pragia) drivers to address road safety problems in our community and strategies to mitigate them. The engagement was facilitated by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in collaboration with Ghana Police Service for Pragia drivers’ union in Bekwai district.
Date: 21st July 2023
Objective: The primary objective of the engagement was to raise awareness about road safety issues specific to rickshaw (Pragia) drivers and to collaborate on solutions to enhance safety on our roads.
Key Attendees: The engagement session was attended by Municipal NCCE, 130 rickshaw (Pragia) drivers from the Sefwi Bekwai community, representatives from Municipal Police, and concerned community members.
Importance of Road Safety
The meeting was commenced by a group deliberation on the importance of raod safety and why it’s an urgent issue in our communities. The following were identified by the group.
Human Lives:
The foremost reason for prioritizing road safety is the preservation of human lives. Ghana has witnessed a concerning rise in road traffic accidents, leading to fatalities and injuries. Ensuring road safety reduces these incidents and safeguards the lives of our citizens.
Economic Impact:
Road accidents result in significant economic losses. They lead to medical expenses, property damage, and loss of productivity. By promoting road safety, we can mitigate these financial burdens on individuals and the nation.
Tourism and Investment:
A safe road network attracts tourists and investors. It enhances the image of the municipal and boosts economic growth through tourism and business opportunities.
Key Discussion Points and Solutions
Awareness and Education:
A concerned community member raised the point that many rickshaw (Pragia) drivers lack formal road safety education, leading to unsafe practices.
It was suggested by the Municipal NCCE director, Madam Nneka Opara that there would be implementation of regular road safety workshops and training sessions for rickshaw drivers, covering traffic rules, safe driving practices, and emergency response procedures.
Vehicle Maintenance: The Bekwai Pragia union leader. Fredrick raised concern that poorly maintained rickshaws can be a hazard on the road.
The Police commander encouraged Pragia riders to have regular maintenance checks for rickshaws to ensure road worthiness.
Overloading and Passenger Safety, he highlighted the issue of overloading rickshaws and how it compromises safety. A community member Nana Agyapong suggested that there is a need for awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of overloading and enforce weight limits rigorously. Another rider suggested fines for riders who flout these limits to serves as a disincentive.
Infrastructure Improvements:
The Bekwai union leader elder yaw Manso voiced their concern that Inadequate space for packing and loading contributes to accidents involving rickshaws. He also spoke about underage riders been another worrying concern.
The Bekwai District Police commander promised to forward the issue to relevant municipal departments to improve road conditions and provide designated rickshaw lanes, especially in high-traffic areas and also ensure proper lighting and signage to enhance safety at night.
Community Policing:
The reckless behavior of some Pragia drivers was highlighted by Ms. Muniratu from NCCCE.
It was suggested by the NCCE director Madam Nneka Opara that there should be collaboration with local law enforcement agencies to establish community policing initiatives, fostering positive relationships between riders and the police. Encourage reporting of unsafe riding
Community Involvement and Collaboration
During the engagement, it was emphasized that addressing road safety issues among Pragia riders requires a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders:
Local Authorities: Commit to providing resources and infrastructure improvements to support road safety initiatives.
Rickshaw (Pragia) riders: Demonstrate a commitment to safe riding practices, regular vehicle maintenance, and participation in educational programs.
Community Members: Report unsafe behavior and promote road safety within the community.
Conclusion
The engagement with rickshaw riders was a constructive step toward addressing road safety problems specific to the Bekwai community of rickshaw riders. By implementing the solutions discussed and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, we can work together to create safer roads for all residents.
We recommend a regular engagement session, safety audits, and a strong commitment from all parties involved to ensure the sustained improvement of road safety among rickshaw riders in our community. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and together, we can make our streets safer and more secure for everyone.
Compiled by:
Dominic Kudom,
Assistant Development Planning Ofiicer