MPs’ siren clause removed in new Road Traffic Bill proposal | TIG Post

The proposed new Road Traffic Bill in Ghana has seen significant amendments, most notably the removal of the controversial siren clause. Initially, the bill mandated that all vehicles with sirens must be registered and approved by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). This provision faced backlash from various stakeholders, particularly the public and civil society organizations, who argued that it could be misused by individuals seeking to evade traffic laws and regulations.

During discussions in Parliament's Committee on Roads and Transport, members expressed concerns over the implications of allowing unrestricted use of sirens. The decision to remove this clause was made to prevent potential misuse while still addressing road safety issues.

In addition to the siren clause removal, other aspects of the bill were debated. These include penalties for traffic violations, which are set to increase significantly; for instance, fines for using mobile phones while driving will rise from GHS 200 to GHS 2,000. Furthermore, provisions for harsher penalties are being considered for offenses leading to accidents resulting in fatalities.

The bill aims to enhance road safety measures across Ghana and align with international best practices. It seeks not only stricter enforcement of existing laws but also introduces new regulations aimed at reducing road accidents.

The revised Road Traffic Bill is now awaiting further deliberation before being presented for a vote in Parliament. If passed, it promises to implement more stringent measures intended to safeguard lives on Ghana’s roads while ensuring responsible use of emergency signals within its legal framework.