Road markings are important for guiding and regulating traffic, conveying information to drivers and pedestrians, through lines, symbols and colours on the road surface.
These markings, especially those on the road surfaces, assist drivers in their movements on the road.
They are crucial as they define lanes and indicate permitted movements.
Sadly, despite their importance, these markings are often absent or have faded, making them difficult to see, particularly at night.
When that happens, it leads to confusion on our roads, and accidents.
Apart from the fact that many drivers find it difficult to stop at a zebra crossing for pedestrians, sometimes, others do not see the zebra crossing markings at all, because they have faded.
On a three-lane highway, such as the McCarthy-Weija stretch, vehicles depend on safe manoeuvres to endure the dense traffic at peak times. Unfortunately, however, one cannot see the road markings.
It is even scarier when there’s less traffic and at night, as streetlights do not work or are not bright enough. I have had instances where I have veered off to other lanes, or someone else has come into my lane. This can be frustrating and nerve-racking.
I have been using the highway, typically six days a week.
I have driven through the stretch for well over seven years, and I am always scared of getting hit because there are no visibly distinct road markings.
Although this is not the only place on the Accra-Winneba highway with unclear road markings, to me, this is the scariest at night.
In some jurisdictions, practical steps are being taken to improve road markings and signage to reduce carnage on roads.
Such jurisdictions are linking the payments of road contracts with the quality of markings on the road.
They are enforcing standards that require road markings to last at least 18-24 months.
They also require water-based painting, which improves visibility and is also environmentally friendly.
Some even support small contractors through training programmes, to equip them to maintain road safety standards through performance-based markings.
It is about life.
Authorities, please do something about all road markings on our highways.
Maame Yaa Konamah.
E-mail: nellyarmah@gmail.com
