By: Daniel Yao Akpabli | ignewss – Accra, Ghana
A concerned Ghanaian motorist, Nyansakyeame Yaw Boadi, has petitioned the government and the Ghana Police Service to address road infrastructure deficiencies before the full implementation of the TRAFFITECH-GH automated traffic enforcement system, scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2026.
In a petition addressed to the President, the Speaker of Parliament and the relevant authorities, Mr Boadi expressed support for the initiative, describing it as a potentially important measure to reduce road crashes and promote transparency in traffic enforcement.
However, he argued that enforcing traffic offences through an automated system while many roads lack essential safety features could raise concerns about fairness and public confidence.
He cited the absence of visible road markings, centre lines, pedestrian crossings and speed limit signs on several roads, alongside potholes and malfunctioning traffic lights at major intersections.
According to the petitioner, motorists should not be subjected to automated penalties without adequate road infrastructure to guide them and support compliance with traffic regulations.
Calls for urgent road improvements
Mr Boadi is asking the government to direct the Ghana Highway Authority and the Department of Urban Roads to undertake emergency road marking and signage works nationwide before the proposed enforcement date.
He has also called for a comprehensive pothole-patching and road maintenance programme, as well as the installation of clearly visible speed limit signs on major roads.
The petition further proposes that the punitive aspects of TRAFFITECH-GH be suspended until the necessary road improvements are completed, with authorities initially relying on cautions and warnings to educate motorists.
Mr Boadi is also seeking a review of the liability of registered vehicle owners in cases where road defects contribute to alleged traffic offences.
Road safety versus enforcement
The petitioner maintained that effective traffic enforcement should be accompanied by adequate road infrastructure and public education to ensure that motorists understand the rules and have the necessary information to comply.
He warned that introducing automated fines without addressing existing infrastructure challenges could undermine public confidence in the system and create the perception that the initiative is primarily intended to generate revenue rather than improve road safety.
The petition has been copied to the Office of the President, Parliament, the Inspector-General of Police, the Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, and media organisations.
Mr Boadi says he expects the relevant authorities to consider the concerns in the interest of fairness, accountability and the safety of all road users.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com