Okada operators must undergo mandatory training before legalisation

Government's plan to review the law and potentially legalise motorbike operations, popularly known as "Okada," is a significant development that highlights the delicate balance between public safety and economic interests. 

The current law, the Road Traffic Regulation 2180, prohibits the use of motorbikes and tricycles for passenger transportation, except for courier and delivery services.

However, with over 800,000 Okada operators in Ghana as of 2020, the government is under pressure to reconsider the legislation.

The Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has emphasised the need to revise the laws to allow Okada to operate freely in the country.

This move is expected to provide jobs, facilitate the 24-hour Economy policy and generate tax revenue for the government.

Proponents of Okada argue that it offers manoeuvrability, compatibility with bad roads and demand-responsiveness, making it an attractive option for many Ghanaians.

The growth of Okada operations in Ghana can be attributed to the country's rapid urbanisation and the lack of reliable and efficient public transportation systems.

Many Ghanaians have turned to Okada as a convenient and affordable means of transportation, particularly in areas with poor road infrastructure.

However, this growth has also raised concerns about public safety, traffic congestion and environmental impact.

For many, the use of motorbikes is inherently dangerous, and the lack of adherence to traffic rules and regulations exacerbates the risks.

Many Okada operators ride recklessly, ignoring traffic signals and manoeuvring dangerously on roads, which poses a threat to pedestrians and other road users. Furthermore, the use of helmets, particularly among pillion passengers, is not encouraging, which increases the risk of head injuries and fatalities.

Despite these concerns, the benefits of legalising Okada operations cannot be ignored.

For us, Okada provides employment opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians, contributes to the country's economic growth.

Additionally, legalising Okada can generate some significant tax revenue for the government.

To address the concerns about public safety and traffic congestion, the Daily Graphic thinks the government must implement effective regulations and enforcement mechanisms.

These include mandatory training programmes for Okada operators, strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations, the provision of safety equipment, such as helmets and reflective jackets, as well as ensuring that both operators and passengers alike are insured against any eventuality.

Moreover, the government can invest in modern and efficient public transportation systems, such as buses and trains to provide a safer and more reliable alternative to Okada. Additionally, promoting the use of bicycles and other non-motorised transportation options can also help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.

In the long term, the government's decision on Okada operations will have a significant impact on the country's economic development and transportation infrastructure.

The government must take a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by Okada operations.

The Daily Graphic, therefore, views the decision to legalise Okada operations as a good move but cautions that it should begin with a mandatory training programme for the operators, strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations, and the provision of safety equipment, such as helmets and reflective jackets.

This approach should involve consultations with stakeholders, including Okada operators, passengers and community leaders and the general public, to ensure that their concerns and needs are taken into account.

Additionally, the government should engage with experts and researchers to gather data and evidence on the impact of Okada operations on public safety, traffic congestion and the environment.

Ultimately, the decision to legalise Okada operations in Ghana requires careful consideration of the benefits and challenges.

While there are valid concerns about public safety and traffic congestion, the benefits of legalising Okada, including job creation, economic growth and tax revenue, cannot be ignored.

By taking a comprehensive and inclusive approach, the government can ensure that Okada operations are safe and responsible and contribute to the country's economic growth and development.