The Ministry of Transport takes its nationwide dissemination exercise to Wa, Upper West Region of Ghana, to create awareness among stakeholders on the rollout of the National Transportation Policy (NTP) 2020 and National Electronic Vehicle Policy (EV)2023 to aid smooth implementation.
The Minister of Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, spoke through the Acting Deputy Director of Administration at the Ministry of Transport, Merlyn Gaskian said when transport systems are efficient, they provide economic and social opportunities and benefits that result in positive multipliers effects such as better accessibility to markets, job and additional investment.
According to him, to attain such economic and social development, the review and implementation of the NTP seeks to provide safe reliable transport services to the citizenry, adding that the policy is designed to help reduce transportation cost for internal distribution of goods and services as well as keeping the national exports competitive in the world market.
On the EV 2023, Mr Gaskian indicated that the burning of fossil fuel, particularly petrol and diesel in vehicles is a major source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emission. As part of the government’s efforts to decarbonize the transport sector in response to the Paris Climate Accord, electric vehicles are recognized as one way.
Meanwhile, the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, said the two national policies are aimed at creating an efficient and sustainable transportation system by promoting the public transportation system and improving the private sector transport system.
The policies will improve road safety, reduce environmental impact, and encourage private investment, he added.
Addressing stakeholders, the Upper West Regional Minister further noted that the national electric vehicle policy drives us towards a cleaner future with the role of increasing electric vehicle adoption, expanding charging infrastructure, and reducing the impact of climate change on the environment.
Story by: Wononuo Salifu||Tungsung Radio