Faint road markings: Danger to pedestrians, drivers
The rate at which road accident occurs each year in the country is very disheartening. It is of no doubt that some road accidents are caused by faded road markings and inappropriate designation of road symbols.
Road marking is an effective way of communicating information to drivers on the road and to some extent inform pedestrians, hence its implementation is very pertinent.
Area road in Accra
Aside, it helps road users to navigate the road systems by making them aware of road hazards. Majority of the road markings state across the country have become faint, some of these roads even lack these markings.
Despite its great disadvantage on pedestrians, drivers take advantage of these faded road markings by preventing passengers from crossing when the need arises. Communities in Accra have many single roads, therefore there is need to ensure road markings on these roads.
A glance at Kwame Nkrumah Circle road vividly portrays faded road markings, which is a threat to the life of pedestrians who uses such roads. Since these markings are not visible, road safety cannot be assured. Pedestrians use these roads by risking their life. Other pedestrians also cross any part of the road since the appropriate places have not been marked.
Faint road markings also create a great danger to drivers and motorist who are new on the road. The road markings aid in instructing and directing them to drive with caution. However, what we observe on our roads rather succor road accidents and reckless driving.
The Spectator reporters, toured roads within Accra and observed that some roads at Nkrumah Circle, North Industrial area in front of SSNIT, Adabraka and Asylum Down depicted absence of road marking. Again, some roads that had the road sign indicating that pedestrians can cross lacked the street markings to affirm the road sign.
As a matter of agency, the Ghana Highway Authority should consistently embark on road markings to aid all road users save their lives and curb indiscipline on the aspect of drivers. Road users can be penalised for not obeying road marking instructions when these markings are painted and can be visibly seen.
By Priscilla Efriyie Ankapong