Accra’s disturbing potholes endanger motorists

Major roads and highways in Accra have been plagued by severe potholes, rendering driving hazardous for motorists and other road users. Repeated complaints to authorities about the potholes have gone unanswered, forcing drivers to navigate the damaged roads at their peril. A visit to the affected areas by MyJoyOnline revealed the gravity of the situation and the daily challenges faced by drivers.

At the Abeka Lapaz interchange, a significant pothole in the outer lane had the potential to break car axles and induce sudden lane changes, a scenario that could lead to accidents, particularly during peak traffic hours.

On the UPSA road near the University of Ghana Business School, numerous potholes had formed, hampering traffic as motorists slowed down to circumvent the damaged sections. East Legon, a bustling commercial and residential area, was also plagued by potholes on the American House main road. The intersection at Sakaman Junction on the Accra-Kasoa Highway presented another perilous pothole.

Motorists warned that this particular pothole posed a heightened risk as drivers at the traffic light would have to maneuver around it during the green signal, leading to tyre and suspension damage.

Residents of the New Bortianor and West Hills Mall area echoed similar sentiments, lamenting the poor condition of the road that had deteriorated significantly and necessitating immediate attention. Many motorists spoke out about the financial strain caused by vehicle repairs due to pothole damage and the heightened safety concerns, especially during night-time and rainy conditions when potholes become even more difficult to discern.

The Ghana Highway Authority, the Department of Urban Roads, and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly were urged to prioritize the repair of these potholes to avert potential accidents and tragic losses of life.