In recent times, traffic congestion in Obuasi is overwhelming which has taken a major toll on students and teachers punctuality at school. This is because the road network in Greater Obuasi is one route (from Obuasi to Asokwa Junction and Obuasi to Kumasi) without supporting diverting roads in case of congestion or blockage.
Most teachers and students alike who commute from far places to school often get to school late because of heavy traffic in the morning. The multiple effects of this situation is that, most teachers are unable to deliver their first lessons which adversely affect the contact hours. Moreover, students also miss the early morning lessons which affect their academic performance.The situation even gets worse when school closes. Some drivers because of the traffic congestion decide not to work at all which put so much pressure on the few cars in town. Sometimes teachers and students get home as late as 7pm already stressed up. This affect them for the next day’s activities. This phenomena is affecting productivity negatively.
As a victim and a concerned citizen, I would recommend that, the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Roads expand the roads into double lane with a flyover at Tutuka. Moreover, I recommend that, the Obuasi Municipal Assembly and Obuasi East District Assembly collaborate with AngloGold Ashanti Company to construct alternative routes within the suburbs of Obuasi. The Municipal Chief Executive and District Chief Executive of Obuasi Municipal Assembly and Obuasi East District Assembly respectively must make sure that broken cars along the roads should be towed to a safer place. The Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate of the Ghana Police Service as well as city guards can be placed at vintage points to smooth movement of vehicles and people.
I am of the strongest conviction that if the measures are put in place traffic congestion in Obuasiwill be nipped in the bud which will eventually bring relieve to teachers and students in Obuasi. Additionally, students’ performance will improve and teachers’ productivity will increase significantly.
BY; VALENTINA GERTRUDE ASAMOAH
CLASS 6 FACILITATOR
OBUASI METHODIST PRIMARY ‘B’.