Residents of Techiman, the Bono East regional capital, have expressed concerns about the malfunctioning of traffic lights in the municipality and have called on authorities to address the issue urgently.
According to the residents, the failure of traffic signals at various junctions in Techiman—except for one—has led to multiple vehicle accidents and pedestrian knockdowns. This was revealed when journalists visited some of the faulty traffic light locations on Tuesday to observe how traffic flow was being managed.
Mr. Issah Adams, the assembly member for Kenten electoral area, explained that the traffic lights had been out of order for several months with no action taken by the authorities to repair them. He noted that while officers from the Motor Traffic Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) were stationed at certain junctions to direct traffic, this only occurred during the day, leaving the roads uncontrolled at night and on weekends.
Mr. Benjamin Sekyere, a rider of the popular “pragyia” (motorcycle), mentioned that road users were often confused at these junctions where no officers were present to direct traffic. This lack of regulation often led to vehicles and pedestrians crossing at the same time, resulting in crashes and accidents.
“We have repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities through various radio phone-ins, but nothing has been done, and the safety of both motorists and pedestrians is being compromised,” said Miss Abena Kupor, a local driver.
Mr. Boakye-Boateng, the Techiman South Municipal Director of the Department of Urban Roads, explained that the failure of the traffic lights was due to faulty underground controllers. He assured residents that the signals at all the junctions in Techiman would undergo an overhaul, including the necessary cabling repairs.
He further clarified that the traffic lights at several key junctions—including Methodist junction, Zongo, Mayanka, Sunyani ring road, Ohene Ameyaw Park junction, and the main Ahenfie junction (which is currently working)—have been awarded to two contractors for repairs.
Mr. Emmanuel Akyeampong-Parry, the Bono East Regional Head of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), expressed concern over the situation and urged the authorities to expedite repairs. He also advised both motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution at the malfunctioning junctions by reducing speed, being vigilant, and ensuring the road is clear before crossing to prevent accidents and injuries.
