Motorway Gridlock: NRSA slams delay, demands swift police action to clear road

Abraham Amaliba, the Director General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), has urged the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) to act quickly during road incidents. This call follows heavy traffic congestion on the Accra-Tema Motorway on Monday, June 2, 2025.

The gridlock extended from the 18 Junction to the 1st Signboard area. It was caused by a tipper truck loaded with sand and stones that overturned. The truck blocked multiple lanes, leaving commuters stranded for over an hour. At that time, there was no police presence to manage traffic or clear the obstruction.

During an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show, Mr. Amaliba emphasized that clearing such incidents is MTTD's responsibility. He stated, “Anytime there is a distress call on the road, the MTTD must respond.” He added that road safety issues arise when agencies do not fulfill their roles.

Mr. Amaliba clarified that NRSA is a regulator and not responsible for clearing roads. He said they can alert MTTD if it fails to perform its duties.

On legislative matters, Mr. Amaliba updated about amending Legislative Instrument (LI) 2180, which governs road traffic regulations in Ghana. He mentioned that the Attorney General’s Department is finalizing this amendment for Parliament soon.

He noted that the Ghana Standards Authority contributed a section addressing safety standards for Okada riders regarding helmets. The NRSA will comply with requests from legal departments to ensure updated regulations are passed.

Mr. Amaliba also discussed the controversial Okada policy and its growing relevance in Ghana. Currently, Okada operations are illegal for commercial purposes.

He stated that if Okadas have become popular transport options, laws should reflect this reality. He believes harmonizing Okada operations can enhance safety and create jobs for youth in Ghana.