The drivers going through the eye screening
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has held a free eye screening exercise for commercial drivers in Accra as part of activities marking its 25th anniversary.
The day’s event, held in partnership with the Ghana Optometry Association, offered complimentary eye screening tests for commercial drivers at the 37 lorry station.
The exercise was to ensure the well-being of drivers and enhance the safety of transport services leading up to and following the Christmas period.
Corporate Affairs Manager at DVLA, Francis Asamoah Tuffuor, highlighted the important role good vision plays in driving hence the need for drivers to have their eyes examined.
He indicated that a similar event was organised at the Kumasi Asafo market as well.
“We have observed, through assessment and research, that a considerable number of drivers neglect their eye health due to time constraints. Considering that vision is fundamental to about 99% of their work, we recognized the need for intervention,” Mr. Tuffuor said.
An Elder at the 37 station, Samuel Owusu Baffuor, emphasised the importance of road safety for commercial drivers during the Christmas season.
“As we approach Christmas, I would like to advise commercial drivers that driving is akin to a mathematical operation. Drivers must exercise vigilance and assertiveness on the road, coupled with prayers for a safe journey. It’s essential to refrain from drinking and driving and to avoid overtaking on hills and curves,” he advised
A beneficiary commercial driver, praised the initiative, stating that the eye screening has helped ensuring safer driving, particularly in challenging conditions such as blinding lights along the coast.
“This initiative has been incredibly helpful because maintaining good health is crucial for everyone. As drivers, finding time to visit the hospital is a challenge. The eye screening has been beneficial, especially when driving along the coast where lights can be blinding. With the screening and any necessary medication, we can now drive more safely. I am thankful to DVLA for organizing such a valuable exercise,” Isaac Prah, a commercial driver said.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri