The partnership between TRACE and Hi-Tech in Ogun

By Adejoke Adeleye 

Traffic Compliance and Enforcement (TRACE) agency in Ogun State has partnered with Hi-Tech Demographic Consulting Services to enforce the use of roof racks and carriers on trucks to improve road safety.

The Hi-Tech Chairman, Mr Moruf Bello while speaking with newsmen on Thursday during a press conference held at TRACE headquarters in Abeokuta noted that unregulated roof racks pose significant risks to road safety.

According to Bello, there is a need for Hi-Tech to partner with necessary agencies to propose registration and enforcement schemes aimed at addressing safety issues in the state.

He added that there should be efforts at ensuring compliance with safety standards, protecting road assets, and maintaining order on highways.

He noted that the scheme involved registering and inspecting all vehicles with roof racks, issuing permits, and enforcing compliance through penalties.

According to him, public education and awareness campaigns will also be conducted to promote understanding and compliance.

“By implementing this scheme, Ogun State can significantly improve road safety, protect public infrastructure, and create a more orderly and secure highway environment for all users.

“Ogun State invests significantly in building and maintaining road infrastructure.

“However, these assets are at risk from vehicles carrying excessive or improperly distributed loads on roof racks and carriers, leading to faster road wear and tear.

“Vehicles with unregulated carriers are prone to carrying more weight than they should, which increases the pressure on road surfaces, bridges, and culverts.

“Implementing a registration and enforcement scheme for roof racks and carriers will ensure that vehicles are operating within safe load limits, protecting the state’s infrastructure from unnecessary damage.

“This will lead to more durable roads, lower maintenance costs for the government, and a better driving experience for road users.” He said.

Also, the Chief Operating Officer of Hi-Tech, Mr Babatope Ajewole, maintained that unregulated and improperly secured roof racks and carriers are a significant cause of road accidents.