Editorial
Encroachment Threatens Emergency Access Road in Darkuman
Dear Editor,
I write to raise urgent concern about ongoing construction activities that are dangerously narrowing a lane near Darkuman Circle Station. This lane has already suffered years of encroachment, and the latest developments could block access for fire tenders, cesspit trucks, ambulances, and other emergency responders.
There is an orange storey building on the right side of the lane. Nearly two decades ago, a structure that completely closed off this lane was demolished following pressure from residents and extensive media coverage. However, workers have returned and erected another structure, leaving part of the lane open but still encroaching.
On the left side of the lane, stores are also being constructed. While the owners are respecting the ground boundary, the buildings extend over the wall, further narrowing the passage. If this continues unchecked, the lane could become impassable for large vehicles. In an emergency, lives could be lost simply because help cannot get through. This is not just a planning issue; it is a serious public safety risk.
I have drafted a petition and will be gathering signatures from neighbors by the close of day. We intend to address it to the Accra Director of Fire Service, the Ablekuma North Municipal Chief Executive, and our Assemblyman. We hope the relevant authorities will act swiftly to prevent further encroachment and restore safe access to the lane.
Mama Moli, Darkuman
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Dear Editor,
I write to express deep concern about the increasingly harmful influence social media is having on children in our communities. What was once intended to be a tool for learning, creativity, and connection has now become a major source of distraction, pressure, and moral decline among many of our young people.
Today, children spend countless hours on platforms that expose them to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and harmful trends. Instead of focusing on their studies, developing social skills, or engaging in healthy activities, many are glued to their screens—losing sleep, losing confidence, and sometimes even losing their sense of reality.
The rise in cases of depression, anxiety, peer pressure, and poor academic performance among young people can no longer be ignored. Even more worrying is how quickly harmful content, violence, explicit material, and dangerous challenges can spread across these platforms, reaching children faster than parents or teachers can intervene.
It is evident that while technology has its benefits, the lack of proper regulation and supervision has left our children vulnerable. Parents must become more proactive in monitoring what their children consume online, schools must strengthen digital literacy education, and authorities should consider stricter policies to protect minors from harmful online exposure.
We cannot sit back and watch the future generation be shaped by uncontrolled digital influences. It is time for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that social media becomes a safer, more positive space for our children.
— James Brown,
Akosombo
Dear Editor,
Please permit me to use your respected medium to commend the Ghana Police Service (GPS) for the decision not to grant leave requests for personnel during the Christmas season. This annual ritual is a clear demonstration that the service is mindful of the need to observe the yuletide in a serene and peaceful atmosphere devoid of difficulties and crimes.
It may not be a pleasant piece of news for the men and women in uniform, but they would be the first to appreciate the fact that the nature of the celebration requires their presence at all times.
My concern, however, is that despite the police visibility, crimes were still perpetrated at certain places. This means that whenever the police take such decisions, criminals also find their way around. My observation is that because personnel are stationed at specific locations, perpetrators carry out their activities where police visibility is low.
I want to suggest that the police administration intensify patrols in areas identified as crime zones to avert attacks. I also wish to advise all agencies responsible for maintaining law and order not to go to sleep. They must be awake to control pubs, drinking bars, eating joints, beaches, and other public gathering spots.
Citizens must also put up their best behaviour to ensure that we have a peaceful Christmas season and reflect on the reason for the celebration.
— Sandra Owusuaa,
Kasoa
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