By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has approved the restoration of the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) to the roads to perform its statutory duties.
He also clarified the operational mandate of the Traffic Management Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) to prevent overlapping functions in the transportation sector.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the governor, Mr. Linus Obogo.
According to the statement, the restoration followed a meeting with critical stakeholders in the transportation sector.
Under the new directive, the VIO will be responsible for vehicle roadworthiness inspection, driver testing, accident investigation, vehicle documentation, mechanical safety assessments, licensing-related tests and technical investigations.
The governor also clarified that TRAMRA is now restricted to traffic management and control, including enforcement against illegal parking, management of traffic flow, traffic light violations and ensuring orderly conduct on public roads.
The statement pointed out that the directive aims to promote professionalism, improve road safety and prevent overlapping responsibilities, harassment and extortion of motorists.
It added that both departments are expected to operate strictly within their lawful mandates in the interest of motorists and the people of the State.
