The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has constituted an 11-member technical committee to investigate the safety of the Toyota Voxy, a vehicle that has gained popularity among commercial drivers and commuters in Ghana, largely due to its speed and affordability.

The committee has been given one month to complete its assessment and submit recommendations, following rising concerns over road crashes involving the Voxy, particularly on long-distance routes.

The vehicle, originally manufactured as a right-hand-drive model, is typically converted to left-hand drive upon importation into Ghana. Some road safety observers have questioned whether these modifications meet required standards and could be contributing to safety risks.

Speaking on the urgency of the probe, NRSA Director Abraham Amaliba stressed the need for swift action.

"We are giving you one month because this is like a hot potato. It's a burning issue, people are dying. We cannot go beyond one month. So, we're giving you one month within which to present your report," he said.

He added that the authority intends to move quickly once findings are submitted.

"After two weeks, following the receipt of the report, to start implementing your recommendations," he explained.

While some stakeholders have called for an immediate ban on the commercial use of the Voxy, Amaliba said the authority must follow due process rather than act arbitrarily.

"I could have just asked my director of compliance to draft a notice that says that henceforth commercial use of Voxy vehicle is banned but what is my basis? I must stand on something to say that. I don't have that," he noted.

He cautioned that such a move could unfairly affect livelihoods.

"That's what we are [being] careful about," he added.

Chairman of the committee, Dr Godwin Ayetor, described the assignment as a responsibility of national importance, assuring the public that the investigation would be evidence-based.

"I'm very certain that we'll be able to produce a report that will help the country. We consider this a national duty," he said.

Dr Ayeto also noted that Ghana is not alone in the widespread use of the Voxy across the continent.

"It's widespread in Africa, so I'm sure our report will also be useful [continentally]," he added.

The NRSA has, meanwhile, urged commuters to make informed transport choices as the investigation continues, assuring the public that the outcome will guide future policy decisions on the vehicle’s commercial use.