Expansion joint nuts on Mallam Interchange pose danger to motorists

Nuts that secure the neoprene rubber and metal covers on the expansion joints of sections of the Mallam Interchange on the N1 Highway in Accra have become exposed, posing a threat to road safety. The situation poses danger to motorists driving mainly from the Mallam Bus Stop end, ascending the interchange towards Awoshie Junction to Baah Yard, and beyond. It is also prevalent on the overpass connecting the Awoshie Junction to Accra towards Sakaman Junction. During a visit to the area last Monday, it was realised that the neoprene cover, as well as the bolts used to cover the joints, had worn out due to the frequent use of the facility.

Puncture

With the nuts exposed, drivers try to veer off the damaged portions to avoid puncturing their tyres, which poses further danger to motorists. Most of the drivers who are aware of the problem use the right side when ascending the interchange, which is better than the left side. Aside from the exposure of the nuts, heaps of sand have also taken over parts of the space meant for motorists to use. In addition, motorists travelling from Awoshie Junction toward Mallam Market have to manoeuvre over the joints, causing discomfort.

Concern

Some drivers who use the interchange, mostly from Weija and beyond, expressed concern about the state of the facility. They believe that the situation should be dealt with as soon as possible before it gets worse. A Kasoa-Madina commercial bus driver, Aminu Musah, said most of the time, he had to avoid driving over the exposed nuts. His fear was that he might develop a puncture in the facility. "Master, you would be hot if you had a puncture here," he said. Seth Kwami, a teacher who uses the area almost daily, said he felt the impact whenever he passed through sections of the interchange, emphasising the urgent need to address the problem for the safety of road users.