Kumasi, Sept. 13, GNA- About 1,733 motor accidents, resulting 205 deaths and 291 injuries were recorded in the first half of the year in the Ashanti Region.

Mr Sampson Kwaku Boafo, Ashanti Regional Minister said this and added that most of the accidents could be avoided if drivers would be a little more patient and more disciplined while driving.

Speaking at a day seminar organised for vulcanisers from some companies including Ghana Water Company (GWCL) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), he said mechanical faults, worn-out tyres, irregular servicing and poor maintenance were some of the causes of accidents.

The seminar was organised by CFAO Ghana Limited in collaboration with Bridgestone Tyres, to introduce the participants to a new tool for mounting tubeless tyres for heavy trucks.

Mr Boafo said he was not happy with the Motor Traffic and Transport (MTTU) personnel of the Police who mount barriers to check traffic offences but allow offending drivers to go unpunished.

He asked vulcanisers to be bold to ask drivers and transport owners to change their over-used tyres adding, "don't for the sake of the few cedis you will make force to mend tyres that are completely worn out".

Mr Samuel Baidoo, Technical Manager of CFAO who took the vulcanisers through the use of the new tools, said Kumasi was the first place to introduce the tools manufactured in Taiwan, so that it could be possible for the mechanics at Suame Magazine to manufacture similar ones for local use.

He said the tools are designed to enable vulcanisers to mount and dismount tyres in a relatively short time.