Sogakope: Some transport operators in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region have expressed mixed reactions to the Ghana Police Service's decision to fully implement its automated traffic law enforcement programme, TRAFFITECH-GH, from October 1, this year.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative has been met with both enthusiasm and skepticism among the local transport community. While some operators support the programme, citing its potential to promote road discipline and curb corruption, others are concerned about the technological reliability and the impact of potential system failures on motorists.
The Ghana Police Service, through the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), announced that TRAFFITECH-GH would employ cameras and Personal Data Assistant (PDA) devices to detect traffic offences and enforce road traffic regulations. Offences identified by the system will result in Electronic Notices of Violation (ENV) being sent to vehicle owners or drivers via SMS, specifying the offence and the applicable fine.
In Sogakope, some transport operators view the initiative as a necessary measure to tackle persistent issues such as reckless driving and illegal parking. They believe that the automated system could reduce direct interactions between motorists and Police officers, thereby minimizing opportunities for bribery and other corrupt practices. Mr. Dugah Maxwell, a local transport operator, noted that the use of technology in traffic enforcement could enhance transparency by providing motorists with clear notifications of their offences and the corresponding penalties.
Conversely, there are concerns about the system's reliability, with some operators questioning the implications of technical faults affecting cameras, PDA devices, or communication networks. They argue that motorists should not be unfairly penalized due to system malfunctions. Mr. Lawrence Badzi, another transport operator, emphasized the need for public education, robust mechanisms for disputing violations, and regular maintenance of the equipment to ensure fair and accurate operation.
While the operators agree on the importance of improving road discipline in Ghana, they stress that enforcement measures must be accompanied by education and transparency. The Police Service stated that the full implementation of TRAFFITECH-GH is part of its broader efforts to enhance road safety, ensure compliance with traffic laws, and reduce road accidents and casualties.