Malfunctioning traffic light at Okponglo Junction: Threat to students, pedestrians
The University of Ghana, one of the premier institutions in the country, has been plagued with a perennial problem that has claimed the lives of many students, particularly non-resident students, and left several others injured.
The Okponglo Junction is a pivotal intersection that connects the university to the rest of the city. The traffic light, which is supposed to regulate the flow of traffic, has been malfunctioning for years.
This creates a chaotic situation that puts the lives of students, especially non-resident students who commute from various parts of the city, and other road users at risk.
According to statistics, an average of three non-resident students have been knocked down by cars every semester, with some cases resulting in fatalities.
The malfunctioning traffic light has also had a significant impact on the academic performance of non-resident students.
The constant fear of being knocked down and the stress caused by the chaotic traffic situation have led to a decline in the academic performance of many non-resident students.
Lack of maintenance
The traffic light has not been properly maintained, leading to frequent breakdowns and malfunctions.
Inadequate funding: The university authorities have not allocated sufficient funds to repair and maintain the traffic light.
Installation of new traffic lights: We are pleading with the Ministry of Roads and Highways as a matter of urgency to install new traffic lights that are more efficient and reliable.
Provision of shuttles by the Ministry of Transport to bus non-residents to their various hostels at a fee: I am pleading with the minister for transport to collaborate with the university to provide shuttles to transport non-residents to their various hostels at a fee.
The university authorities, government agencies and other stakeholders must work together to address the problem and ensure the safety of non-resident students and other road users.
Melchizedeck Donkor,
Non-Residence Chairperson,
University of Ghana SRC.
E-mail: melchizedeckdonkor69@gmail.com
