Traders at Atonsu in the Asokwa Municipality have attributed the non-functioning of the traffic lights within the area to drivers’ negligence.
Traffic lights play a crucial role in regulating traffic flow and ensuring road safety.
Studies have shown that the proper functioning of traffic lights can significantly impact drivers’ decision-making processes and reduce the number of conflicting flows at intersections.
However, malfunctioning traffic lights on major streets in Kumasi have led to chaotic scenes during peak hours, posing risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Orange FM’s Community Lens will focus on the traffic lights installed on the Atonso Agogo stretch within the Asokwa Municipality.
Despite being installed less than a year ago to prevent congestion and accidents, the traffic lights have been repeatedly damaged by vehicles running into them.
Traders selling on pavements have called for drivers to be held responsible for damaging state property to deter others from doing the same.
Agya Nsiah, a taxi driver at Atonsu, highlighted the risks posed by the damaged traffic lights to pedestrians and motorists, emphasizing that the malfunctioning lights have led to accidents and pose a significant danger to road users.
Approximately 30% of the traders at Atonsu conduct business along the road, exposing themselves to significant risk.
While they acknowledge the dangers, they have no choice but to sacrifice their safety to earn a living.
The traders have urged authorities to intervene and address the damaged traffic lights to prevent potentially serious problems.
