As discussions on the legalization of commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as “Okada,” gain momentum, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has unveiled a comprehensive framework aimed at enforcing discipline and safety in the sector.
Speaking on TV3, the Acting Director-General of the NRSA, Abraham Amaliba, stressed that should Parliament approve Okada operations, stringent regulations would be introduced to curb lawlessness and improve road safety.
Key among the proposed measures is the mandatory registration of Okada riders under unions, eliminating the possibility of individual operations. According to Amaliba, this approach will enhance accountability and help authorities track riders involved in illegal activities.
“We are not going to have individual Okada riders walking to the offices to say, ‘I have a motorbike, I want to register.’ You must be with a union, and that union must have its executives. That way, if a rider engages in illegal activities, we can trace them through the union,” he explained.
Additionally, Okada riders and their passengers will be required to wear standardized uniforms, reflectors, and government-approved helmets for easy identification and safety compliance.
To further regulate operations, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) will introduce special number plates and a dedicated licensing system for commercial motorcycles. Law enforcement agencies will then be tasked with ensuring compliance.
A significant technological intervention will also be implemented—Okada motorcycles will be fitted with speed control gadgets and GPS tracking systems to monitor movement and prevent reckless riding.
“We are going to install speed limiters in their bikes to stop them from speeding. Each motorbike will also have a tracker, allowing authorities to monitor its movement in real time,” Amaliba revealed.
With these proposed measures, the NRSA aims to strike a balance between road safety and the economic benefits of Okada operations, ensuring that legalization does not lead to increased accidents or crime.
