Editorial
Footbridges not market!
Dear Editor,
We all have to engage in one activity or the other in order to make ends meet but I am surprised how some people in Accra want to turn every available space into a market, including newly constructed footbridges.
My recent observation is the Madina Footbridge, specifically the new one close to the Redco junction and a few others in the area and beyond.
A walk on the bridge should have taken less than five minutes but I did it in about 10 minutes, when I decided to use it recently. I was dazed by the uncountable number of traders who had occupied the space, making it difficult for me and other users to find our way through.
Conscious of the misconduct, I noticed them running in opposite directions anytime a false alarm was raised about a Municipal Guard approaching. Variety of food items, vegetables, clothing, among others were displayed along the walkway.
Returning to the Shiashie footbridge also, I spotted other people selling sandals and dresses although their activity was not as busy as what I saw at Madina.
Similar activities were also springing up on the Spanner footbridge close to the Accra Mall. Majority of the people who occupy these spaces are petty traders and I believe they hang around the area to get “something small” from pedestrians at random.
Inasmuch as they must survive, I wonder how long we must allow them to turn these places into mini markets before we act. I wish to remind authorities that, footbridges especially newly constructed ones must be made to serve its intended purpose before these traders take over completely.
Philip Kumi,
Achimota.
Dear Editor,
I wish to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to the poor state of the railway crossing area of the Neoplan Station, near Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, which is increasingly disrupting the smooth flow of traffic.
The damaged section of the road has become a major inconvenience to motorists, as vehicles are forced to slow down considerably when approaching the crossing to avoid damaging their tyres, wheels and suspension systems.
This situation causes unnecessary delays, particularly during peak hours when traffic volumes are high.
The crossing is an important route for commuters and commercial drivers who use the Circle area to connect to other parts of the capital.
The deteriorating road surface therefore affects not only individual motorists but also the general movement of vehicles through this busy transport hub.
Beyond the inconvenience, the situation could increase the risk of minor accidents as drivers brake suddenly or attempt to manoeuvre around damaged portions of the road.
I respectfully appeal to the Department of Urban Roads, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and other relevant agencies to inspect the affected section and undertake urgent repairs to restore the smooth movement of traffic.
Timely intervention will reduce delays, improve road safety and make commuting through the Circle area more convenient.
Yours faithfully,
Concerned Citizen
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Dear Editor,
I wish to draw the attention of the authorities and the general public to the increasing cost of hostel accommodation, particularly for students in tertiary institutions.
The high cost of hostels has become a serious challenge for many students and their parents.
In some areas, hostel fees have increased significantly, making it difficult for students from low- and middle-income families to secure decent accommodation.
Apart from the hostel fees, students also have to pay for transportation, food, learning materials and other academic needs.
The rising cost of accommodation therefore puts additional financial pressure on families and, in some cases, forces students to live in overcrowded or poorly maintained facilities.
I believe hostel owners and relevant authorities must work together to ensure that accommodation remains affordable while maintaining acceptable standards.
Tertiary institutions should also consider expanding student accommodation and encouraging affordable private hostel projects.
The government and local authorities could further support the development of low-cost student accommodation through appropriate policies and incentives.
I therefore appeal to the Ministry of Education, tertiary institutions and other stakeholders to treat the issue as a matter of urgency.
Affordable and decent accommodation is essential to creating a conducive environment for students to study and succeed.
This has in a way also empowered the private people in the accommodation sector to take undue advantage of the situation to charge exorbitant rates for their services.
Kwame Ampiaw,
Accra
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