Motorists, pedestrians decry deteriorating road guards in Accra

Residents and commuters in Accra are raising urgent concerns over the worsening condition of road guard barriers and other safety installations across the city, describing the situation as a growing danger to both motorists and pedestrians.

Many of these protective structures—designed to separate vehicles from walkways and improve road safety—are now either damaged, broken, or completely missing in several busy corridors, according to multiple accounts.

Drivers report that the dilapidated state of the barriers makes navigation increasingly difficult, particularly on congested roads and at night when visibility is poor. They warn that the absence of proper railings raises the risk of collisions and other traffic incidents.

Pedestrians, for their part, say they are often forced to walk perilously close to moving vehicles in areas where functioning safety barriers no longer exist. This, they note, exposes them to unnecessary danger, especially in high-traffic zones.

Transport operators have joined the call for immediate action, stressing that consistent maintenance of road infrastructure is essential to prevent avoidable accidents.

The growing frustration has sparked wider debate about urban infrastructure upkeep in Ghana, with many residents questioning how such essential safety features have been allowed to deteriorate without timely repairs.

Road safety experts caution that well-maintained guards, signage, and pedestrian protections are critical to reducing accidents and improving traffic discipline. Neglecting these structures, they warn, can have serious public safety consequences.

Despite repeated complaints from road users, many affected areas have yet to see any significant repair or replacement work, fueling further discontent among commuters.

Authorities are now being urged to conduct urgent inspections and coordinate swift action to restore damaged road safety structures across the capital.