The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has indeed been working to address the issue of road accidents caused by lack of streetlights. According to Pearl Adusu Sateckla, the PRO for NRSA, the authority has held several meetings with institutions like the Energy Ministry and Assemblies to tackle this problem. A major concern is that most road accidents occur at night, likely due to insufficient streetlights on major and minor roads.
To mitigate this, the Energy Ministry is developing a new framework for streetlights designed to be theft-resistant, addressing the issue of stolen streetlights and wires that has plagued previous efforts. This new framework aims to provide durable streetlights that can withstand harsh weather conditions and theft attempts. The delay in implementing streetlights is attributed to the development of this framework.
NRSA emphasizes the need for caution on roads, particularly at night. Individuals with eye problems are advised to refrain from driving in the evenings and instead opt for alternative arrangements, such as having someone else drive or riding as a passenger. Drivers are also urged to exercise extra caution when driving at night, as accidents can have devastating consequences and do not discriminate.
The authority has appealed to institutions and the government to prioritize road safety by releasing funds allocated for streetlight projects and taking other necessary measures to reduce accidents. Kwame Koduah Atuahene, Head of Regulations, Inspection, and Compliance at NRSA, stresses that streetlights are critical to accident and crime control, especially during heavy traffic seasons and shopping periods.
Key Measures to Enhance Road Safety:
– Streetlight Installation: Priority should be given to installing streetlights on major highways and town centers to reduce road accidents and improve security at night.
– Law Enforcement Patrols: Intensified patrols in areas with less illumination at night can help solve this pressing issue.
– Collaboration: District Assemblies, Cities, and Municipalities must abide by standards in city6 planning and lighting on streets and highways to minimize risks to road users.
– Pedestrian Walkways: Ensuring pedestrian walkways are free from obstructions can reduce the risk of crashes in urban centers.
By implementing these measures and working together, NRSA believes that road accidents can be significantly reduced, and safety can be improved for all road users.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
