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Road Safety Officer Confirms Complaints Over Kasoa-Winneba Highway Construction.
Kasoa, Ghana – Road Safety Officer Ebo Anderson has confirmed that numerous complaints have been lodged regarding the ongoing construction work on the Kasoa-Winneba Highway, raising safety concerns for road users and residents. Speaking on the Ideal FM ‘Ghana Wonsom’ Morning Show with host B. I. C. Abeiku Okai, Anderson outlined issues brought forward by the public, his personal observations, and engagements with Fairmount Construction, the company responsible for the project.
Dust Pollution a Major Concern
During the interview, B. I. C. Abeiku Okai questioned Anderson on the dusty nature of the road, which has become a health and safety hazard. Anderson confirmed that commuters and residents have reported breathing difficulties, reduced visibility, and general discomfort due to excessive dust. He noted that Fairmount Construction has acknowledged the problem and is attempting to control it by watering the road. However, the company cited challenges in sourcing sufficient water for the task. To address this, they have drilled boreholes, though these are not yet operational.
Reckless Driving by Construction Workers
When asked about complaints regarding reckless driving by construction workers, Anderson confirmed that many road users have reported speeding, dangerous overtaking, and careless behavior by some drivers of construction vehicles. He revealed that Fairmount Construction, when engaged on the matter, stated that they require photographic evidence or vehicle registration numbers to take disciplinary action against offenders.
However, Anderson, based on his personal observations, recommended that the company label its trucks and other vehicles to make it easier for the public to report misconduct. This, he said, would increase accountability and improve safety on the road.
Lack of Adequate Road Signs
B. I. C. Abeiku Okai further inquired about the lack of road signs to alert road users about construction activities. Anderson agreed that the situation was a major concern, as many signs were either missing, poorly placed, or not visible enough. He emphasized that the absence of proper signs increases the risk of accidents, particularly at night. Fairmount Construction, in response, has promised to improve road signage by making them more visible and strategically placed.
Poorly Maintained Diverted Roads
Addressing concerns about poor maintenance of alternative roads, Anderson confirmed that diverted routes are in bad condition, with deep potholes and uneven surfaces causing inconvenience to commuters. Many drivers have reported damage to their vehicles, resulting in frequent repairs and increased costs.
According to Anderson, Fairmount Construction acknowledged the problem and assured that they would keep the alternative roads in better condition to minimize the hardship on road users.
Financial Burden on Vehicle Owners
When asked whether vehicle owners would receive any form of compensation for the damage caused to their vehicles, Anderson revealed that no such arrangement has been made. However, Fairmount Construction emphasized their commitment to ensuring that the construction work is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible to prevent further vehicle damage.
Lack of Community Engagement
On the issue of poor communication with affected communities, Anderson confirmed that many residents along the Kasoa-Winneba stretch felt uninformed about construction activities that posed risks to their daily lives. He personally observed that some construction-related hazards could have been avoided if proper engagement had been done.
Fairmount Construction, in response, agreed to improve communication and announced plans to partner with Ideal FM and other local radio stations to provide regular updates and sensitization about their construction activities.
Way Forward
While Fairmount Construction has made several commitments, road users and residents remain cautiously optimistic, hoping that the company will follow through on its promises. Authorities, including the Road Safety Commission, will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the necessary improvements are made to enhance safety and reduce inconveniences on the Kasoa-Winneba Highway.
Source: Ideal FM