The Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have come out in fierce opposition to a recent directive by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) banning the use of the Toyota Voxy for commercial transport.
In a scathing press release issued Wednesday, April 8, the group described the ban as “lazy and ill-conceived,” sparking a debate over whether the problem lies with the vehicle or the environment in which it operates.
The Toyota Voxy, a compact MPV, has become a staple on Ghanaian roads due to its fuel efficiency and seating capacity.
However, citing safety concerns, the NRSA has moved to restrict its use for commercial purposes.
National Chairman of the transport union, Asonaba Nana Wiredu, argues that the NRSA is misidentifying the “root causes” of road accidents.
According to the operators, the focus should be on human behavior and infrastructure rather than the machinery itself.
”Rather than engaging in blanket bans, the NRSA should focus on educating drivers on road safety tips and organizing seminars to enhance their skills,” the statement read.
The ban isn’t just a regulatory hurdle; for many, it is a threat to their livelihoods.
The transport unions highlighted that thousands of families depend on the income generated by Voxy drivers.
Operators maintain that the Voxy is a “popular and reliable vehicle” when maintained and driven correctly.
Unions expressed frustration that the decision was made without engaging the very people who operate the vehicles daily.
The Commercial Transport Operators, along with the True Drivers Union, have laid out a clear set of demands to resolve the standoff.
They demand that the NRSA reconsider the ban, engage in a dialogue with stakeholders, and prioritize safety seminars and skill enhancement programs.
They also want the authority to address the “root causes” of accidents—specifically poor road conditions—and develop safety measures specific to high-risk areas rather than nationwide bans.
The tone of the release was one of deep defiance. Yaw Barimah, National P.R.O. for the True Drivers Union, and David Agboado, P.R.O. for the transport operators, joined Chairman Wiredu in signing the document, which labels the NRSA’s move as a “shameful idea.”
The unions have signaled that they will not take the decision lying down, stating they are prepared to take “all necessary steps” to protect the interests of their members.
The NRSA has yet to issue an official response to the operators’ demands.
For now, the future of the Toyota Voxy on Ghana’s commercial routes—and the peace between regulators and drivers—remains in a state of high-speed tension.
By 1960news.com
