The National Roads and Highways Authority (NRHA) is planning to introduce a mandatory towing subscription system for all vehicle owners as part of new road safety regulations. According to Abraham Amaliba, the Managing Director of NRHA, the proposed measure will be included in a new Legislative Instrument (L.I) that also covers the legalization of commercial motorbike operations (Okada). The move aims to address the growing concern over broken-down vehicles left unattended on major highways, causing traffic congestion and posing safety risks.
Under the proposed system, vehicle owners will be required to subscribe to a towing company or insurance provider accredited by the NRHA. When a vehicle breaks down, the owner will simply call their subscriber for assistance. The NRHA will certify certain towing service providers for road users to choose from, ensuring efficiency and fairness in the system. This approach is expected to reduce the incidents of vehicles breaking down on the roads and minimize disruptions to traffic flow.
Failure to comply with the mandatory towing subscription system will result in penalties. If a vehicle owner fails to subscribe to a towing service and their vehicle breaks down, the NRHA will tow the vehicle, and the owner will be surcharged for the service. This measure is designed to encourage vehicle owners to take responsibility for their vehicles and ensure they have access to prompt assistance in case of a breakdown.
The introduction of a mandatory towing subscription system is expected to have several benefits. It will reduce the number of broken-down vehicles on the roads, minimize traffic congestion, and improve road safety. Additionally, the system will provide vehicle owners with peace of mind, knowing that they have access to prompt assistance in case of a breakdown. The NRHA’s accreditation of towing service providers will also ensure that vehicle owners receive efficient and reliable service.
The NRHA will play a crucial role in implementing the mandatory towing subscription system. The authority will be responsible for accrediting towing service providers and ensuring that they meet the required standards. Vehicle owners will have a choice of towing service providers to subscribe to, and the NRHA will ensure that the system is fair and efficient.
The introduction of a mandatory towing subscription system is part of the NRHA’s broader efforts to reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety in Ghana. By minimizing the number of broken-down vehicles on the roads and providing prompt assistance to vehicle owners, the system will contribute to a safer and more efficient transportation network. The NRHA’s initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s road infrastructure and enhance the overall driving experience for motorists.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
