By Kekeli K. Blamey
Adidome (V/R), April 16, GNA – Mr. Guggisberg Fiagbenu, the Chairman of the Adidome-Juapong Transport Union and Assembly Member of Adidome Central Electoral Area, Central Tongu, has warned drivers to exercise caution on the roads during the Easter celebrations.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Fiagbenu emphasized the importance of safe driving practices to protect the lives of passengers and prevent accidents.
According to Mr. Fiagbenu, some drivers engage in careless behaviours, such as speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol, which significantly increases the risk of accidents.
These actions, he said, not only put the lives of passengers at risk but also result in loss of property and damage to the community.
“We are approaching a festive season, and many of our members will be on the roads, ferrying passengers to and from various destinations. As a union, we are concerned about the safety of our passengers, and we are urging our drivers to be vigilant and responsible,” Mr. Fiagbenu said.
The Chairman noted that the union has been working tirelessly to ensure that member drivers adhere to safety protocols, but some drivers still engage in reckless behavior.
“We have instances where drivers drive carelessly, and some even take alcoholic beverages before getting behind the wheel. Others don’t even ensure that their vehicles are road worthy, and this leads to several accidents. This is unacceptable and poses a significant risk to the lives of our passengers,” he added.
To mitigate these risks, Mr. Fiagbenu urged drivers to adhere to essential safety guidelines.
“We want our drivers to always observe speed limits, avoid distractions while driving, ensure their vehicles are in good condition, and never drive under the influence of alcohol. These simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents and saving lives,” he emphasized.
Mr. Fiagbenu also emphasized the role of passengers in promoting road safety. He encouraged passengers to report any instances of reckless driving to his office.
“We want passengers to be vigilant and report any driver who is driving recklessly. This will help us to take necessary actions to prevent accidents,” he said.
Additionally, the Chairman urged passengers to treat drivers with respect and patience. “Some passengers are quick to use abusive language against drivers at the least provocation. This can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents. We appeal to passengers to be patient and respectful towards our drivers,” he said.
The Union Chairman mentioned that he would work closely with the Police in the district to maintain law and other as well as avert possible accident cases in the enclave.
Mr. Fiagbenu also urged canoe riders in the district to maintain decorum in the discharge of their duties.
He urged them to always foster the use of life-jackects and avoid speeding on the waters while carrying passengers across overbank communities.
The drivers in the area have pledged to work with relevant stakeholders and adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents during the Easter festivities.
GNA
MA/CA