Accra, Ghana – The Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, has announced plans to drastically increase the fine imposed on overloaded vehicles, raising the current penalty from GH¢5,000 to GH¢50,000.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement this week, Hon. Agbodza explained that the move is aimed at enforcing stricter compliance with road safety regulations and reducing the significant damage caused by overloaded trucks on the nation’s highways.

“We are not doing this to punish drivers, but to preserve our roads and protect the lives of Ghanaians. Overloading leads to faster deterioration of our roads and increases the risk of serious accidents,” the minister stated.

Overloaded vehicles have long been a major concern in Ghana, contributing to frequent road repairs, higher maintenance costs, and increased accident rates. The proposed hike in fines is expected to act as a strong deterrent to transport operators and encourage adherence to loading limits.

The minister noted that this policy will be part of a broader strategy to improve road infrastructure and ensure safer transportation across the country. If implemented, offenders will face a GH¢50,000 penalty per violation, making it one of the strictest measures taken against road abuse in recent years.

The proposal is expected to go through the necessary legislative procedures before enforcement begins.