Editorial
Check vehicles emitting harmful gases
Dear Editor,
I wish to bring to the attention of the appropriate authorities the issue of an increasing environmental pollution in Accra.
As a concerned citizen, I have noticed an increase in pollution levels which is very detrimental to our health and wellbeing.
The major cause of pollution in Accra is a result of the emissions from vehicles on the streets, especially the commercial ones.
It has no doubt affected the quality of air we breathe. It is so contaminated due to the emission of those harmful gases.
The health challenges associated with this is well known to our health authorities, leading to the rise in respiratory diseases and other related health problems.
Additionally, the noise coming from some of these vehicles is too much. This particularly affects residents who live close to the roadsides.
It even makes sleeping quite difficult sometimes.
I would like to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) and the Accra Metropolitan Authority (AMA) and other related agencies to play their roles well to reduce the number of rickety vehicles on the roads.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) must also make it a responsibility to register only cars that are in good conditions in order to curb those situations.
Deborah Asante,
Dansoman.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
