The Upper East Regional office of the National Road Safety Commission has given awards to stakeholders in road safety at a ceremony in Bolgatanga on Friday.

The award was instituted by the NRSC to correct faults and encourage proper practice and behavior, as well as recognize the efforts of transport and other stakeholders, who have distinguished themselves in service delivery and thus contributing to road safety in the region.

Addressing the stakeholders, the Regional Manager of the NRSC, Mr. Mohammed Atilado said the awards had become necessary to motivate transport unions to pursue best road safety practices as the country envisions reducing the current fatalities associated with occupants of buses.

He disclosed that from January to August this year, 45 persons had died through road crashes in the region. This he said had increased slightly over the 39 fatalities recorded within the same period in 2011.

He attributed the numerous fatalities to indiscipline on the part of some motor riders in the region and appealed to them to be mindful of the road safety regulations.

Mr. Atilado said the NRSC had intensified its education and sensitization programmes in the regions in collaboration with the MTTU in the enforcement of road safety regulations as part of efforts to stem accidents.

He commended the major stakeholders for their support towards road safety in the region.

Mr. Joseph Nii Ofei Amoo, Regional Engineer of the State Transport Company (STC), who received an award in the Best Transport Union category, expressed gratitude to the NRSC for the recognition.

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Metro Mass Transit and a number of media houses and personnel were also awarded for their significant contribution to the road safety agenda in the region.