Prampram: Superintendent Samuel Ntoso, the Prampram District Police Commander, has launched a strategic initiative aimed at formalizing the operations of commercial auto rickshaw (Pragya) riders. This new intervention involves bringing licensing services closer to operators and introducing a flexible payment scheme to assist in compliance efforts.
According to Ghana News Agency, Superintendent Ntoso noted that while the Pragya transport business serves as a crucial mode of mobility in rural and peri-urban areas, numerous operators are functioning without the necessary documentation. During the inauguration of the Prampram chapter of the National Union of Tricycle Operators Ghana (NUTOG), he revealed that fewer than 10 of the approximately 80 Pragya operators in Prampram possess the mandatory Driver's Licence Class A required for tricycle operation.
Superintendent Ntoso emphasized that instead of focusing solely on arrests and confrontations, the police are now prioritizing proactive regulation to enhance safety and ensure that riders comply with legal requirements. He warned that the lack of valid licenses poses a significant road safety risk to all road users, highlighting the urgent need for community-level intervention.
Drawing from his experiences in Dwaboso and Sandema in the Upper East Region, Superintendent Ntoso has encouraged the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to bring their services closer to local communities, especially on market days or during scheduled visits. This approach aims to eliminate barriers that prevent riders from obtaining necessary documentation.
Acknowledging the financial difficulties faced by many operators, the District Commander introduced a 'pay small-small' savings model to help riders cover licensing costs. Under this model, riders can save a portion of their daily earnings with trusted local bankers and community leaders. Once their savings reach the required amount, the DVLA will process their registration and licensing documents on-site, alleviating the financial burden.
Superintendent Ntoso stressed the importance of three key requirements for all Pragya operators: valid vehicle registration, possession of a Class A driver's licence, and comprehensive insurance coverage. He pointed out that without proper training and insurance, both riders and passengers are at risk, as evidenced by regular crash reports from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD).
The police commander warned that although the initiative is designed to assist operators, strict enforcement will follow for those who do not take advantage of the opportunity to regularize their operations. He clarified that the grace period should not be misconstrued as tolerance for illegal activities, expressing his commitment to enforce the law firmly to safeguard public safety, even in the face of potential criticism.