Buduburam: The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has taken decisive action by closing six private vehicle testing stations (PVTS) that were found to be issuing roadworthiness certificates to vehicles deemed unfit. This move is part of the DVLA's ongoing efforts to enforce compliance and enhance road safety across the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, CEO of the DVLA, revealed this development during the inauguration of a new private vehicle testing station at Buduburam, near Kasoa. Mr. Kotey emphasized the importance of integrity in operations, stating, "In the past two to three months, we have closed about six PVTS that did not inspect cars, yet they issued roadworthy certificates." He urged operators and staff to avoid corrupt practices and ensure that only roadworthy vehicles pass through their stations.
Mr. Kotey further elaborated on the DVLA's commitment to intensifying the monitoring of testing centres to ensure strict adherence to standards. He highlighted the collective responsibility to maintain road safety, cautioning, "It is our collective responsibility to ensure that there is safety on our roads. We don't know who will be the victim tomorrow."
The inauguration of the Buduburam PVTS is part of a broader DVLA initiative to expand its services with the opening of three new facilities, including the Anyaa Ultra Centre and Kasoa Ultra Centre. Mr. Kotey clarified that while PVTS facilities focus on vehicle inspections and test reports, the Ultra Centres offer a full range of DVLA services, such as vehicle registration, licensing, and ownership transfers.
In a move to further enhance vehicle traceability and enforcement, Mr. Kotey announced the introduction of RFID-enabled number plates. These plates will be integrated into a central database, improving vehicle traceability and strengthening enforcement measures.
The CEO also discussed plans to expand the DVLA's presence to all districts, aiming to reduce reliance on unauthorized middlemen, commonly known as 'goro boys.' He urged vehicle owners to update their details in the enhanced database to facilitate this transition.
In support of the DVLA's initiatives, Madam Philis Naa Koryoo Okunor, Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, called on staff to maintain professionalism and encouraged local residents to utilize the services. Mr. Emmanuel Adotey Allotey, Municipal Chief Executive for Ga Central, praised the DVLA for its expansion efforts and pledged support for future growth.