The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has launched a technical investigation into the growing use of converted Toyota Voxy vehicles as commercial passenger taxis, especially on Ghana’s busy long-distance routes, amid rising public safety fears.
The NRSA announced the move Wednesday, responding to widespread complaints about these popular minivans, many of which were originally imported as right-hand drive (RHD) models from markets like Japan and later modified to left-hand drive (LHD) for Ghana’s roads.
Industry observers and drivers have flagged potential handling issues, including instability at high speeds and on sharp curves, which could compromise roadworthiness in heavy commercial use.
“In line with our mandate to promote safer roads and cut down traffic crashes, we’re setting up a Technical Working Group (TWG) for a thorough probe,” the NRSA stated in an official release.
The team will assess the vehicles’ safety performance to guide future regulations, addressing what the authority described as a “potential risk to public safety.”
Until the TWG completes its work, the NRSA has issued a strong interim advisory, urging drivers and passengers to stay extra vigilant around converted Toyota Voxys in commercial service.
“Exercise heightened caution in their patronage and operation, particularly on long routes,” the advisory warns.
The measure is precautionary only and does not deem the vehicles unsafe outright.
“This is not a final judgment on any vehicle type,” the NRSA emphasized, encouraging road users to prioritize personal safety with informed choices during the probe.
Toyota Voxys have surged in popularity among Ghanaian trotros and shared taxis due to their spacious design and affordability, but conversions from RHD to LHD often done post-importation have sparked debate.
Mechanics and transport unions have long raised alarms about substandard modifications leading to accidents, aligning with Ghana’s persistent road fatality crisis. Last year alone, the NRSA reported over 2,000 deaths from traffic crashes, many involving commercial vehicles.
The authority’s action echoes recent crackdowns on unroadworthy vehicles, including mandatory inspections for commercial fleets.
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
