Commercial transport operators in Ghana have pushed back against the National Road Safety Authority’s ban on Toyota Voxy vehicles for long-distance passenger use, arguing the directive overlooks deeper challenges in the transport sector.
This comes after NRSA banned Toyota Voxy vehicles from long-distance commercial transport following concerns over safety risks and fatal accidents linked to the use of converted vehicles.
According to NRSA, a technical review found that many Toyota Voxy vehicles are modified from right-hand to left-hand drive, a process experts say compromises their structural integrity and makes them unsuitable for commercial use.
However, the operators, in a statement, described the move as “a lazy and ill-conceived approach,” insisting that authorities should focus on enforcement, driver training, and improved road conditions instead of imposing outright restrictions.
They argue that the ban will disrupt livelihoods, as many drivers depend on the vehicle for their daily operations.
They further urged regulators to engage stakeholders and adopt targeted interventions, saying efforts should be directed at addressing root causes of road accidents rather than restricting vehicle use.
