AYV News, November 20, 2024
Many Sierra Leoneans have raised concerns relating to the lifespan of the World Bank funded $50 million grant Waka Fine buses, as Freetown grapples with the problem of potholes on major street within the capital that are destroying vehicles.
For months past now, deep potholes are trapping vehicles and wrecking Freetown’s transport system.
Among many other major streets, Abacha street, Circular road in the heart of the city, main Bai Burreh road leading to the east end of Freetown, and Wilkinson road in the west, vehicles, including the new Waka Fine buses struggle to get in and out of the holes.
In a recent interview with AYV, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority denied the responsibility of repairing the roads, while shifting the blame on the Road Maintenance Fund, receiving funds to repair roads.
Moses Sesay, a vehicle owner said: “The state of major streets in the city has become a pervasive problem, impacting daily commuters and causing vehicular damage. Streets like Wilkinson road, Peninsular road, Abacha street, Circular Road and Fourah Bay Road, which are critical arteries of the city’s transportation network, currently resemble obstacle courses rather than smooth thoroughfares. The plight of these roads hasreached a breaking point”.
He called on the Minister of Works and Public Assets to take immediate and decisive action, adding that the deteriorating condition of these streets not only hampers traffic flow but also poses safety risks to pedestrians and drivers, leaving them vulnerable to accidents and injuries.
Some residents have also expressed frustration and concern, highlighting the detrimental effects of the road deterioration on their daily lives. Business owners along these routes have reported losses as customers and suppliers struggle to navigate the pitted streets, impacting economic activities and livelihoods.
They urged government, through the relevant authorities to prioritise the restoration and maintenance of Freetown’s major streets. Prompt intervention is imperative to ensure the safety and convenience of citizens and visitors alike.
