The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), in collaboration with the Western Region Road Safety Authority, has kick-started a road safety campaign to reduce accidents before and during the Christmas season.Under the theme "Safe Travels During Christmas: The Role of GPRTU in Ensuring the Safety of Passengers," GPRTU Western Regional Chairman, Joseph Simmons Cudjoe, stressed the need for immediate action, noting the recent rise in road accidents, urging drivers to adopt safe driving practices and encouraged passengers to report any reckless behavior.With elections also approaching, Cudjoe advised passengers to avoid intense political discussions on public transport as such conversations can distract drivers.Joseph Simmons Cudjoe" We are not just sensitizing the drivers geared towards driving safe during this Christmas festivities.
We are also in a political season…the political atmosphere is charged, passengers would like to discuss politics as they commute on public transport but we will advise that such discussion should be measured as it has the tendency of distracting some drivers who are also politically charged," he advised.He however urged passengers to also do the needful by reporting any driver found to be driving reckless during this festive season for punitive measures to be taken.Western Region Road Safety Director, Victor Kojo Bilson, commended GPRTU's proactive efforts, emphasizing the importance of public education to curb road incidents.Victor Kojo BilsonAs the holiday season nears, Victor Kojo Bilson advised drivers to desist from driving tired as data with the Western Chapter of Ghana Road Safety Authority reveal most accidents on roads in the region are attributed to driving while tired.He further admonished drivers on lifestyle and practices which cause accident."Some drivers have adopted the practice of drinking coffee and energy drinks with the mindset of not resting when they feel tired.
Such practices are very dangerous.
As a driver if you feel tired you need to rest and continue the journey later than to be drinking and inhaling substances thinking it will keep you awake," he advised.Read also:Deal with lawyers who criticise judiciary unfairly with a firm fist - A-G tells General Legal Council