The Achimota-Ofankor underpass, a vital artery for Accra’s commuters, has recently been under scrutiny following a viral video showcasing damage to its retaining walls. The central question on many minds: Is the underpass still safe for daily use? In response to growing concerns, the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has issued a statement aimed at reassuring the public about the underpass’s structural integrity and the planned remedial actions. This report examines the GHA’s pronouncements, the nature of the damage, and the measures being implemented to safeguard road users, focusing intently on the core issue of safety at the Achimota-Ofankor underpass.

The Ghana Highway Authority has sought to allay fears, asserting that the Achimota-Ofankor underpass remains safe for road users, despite acknowledging damage to parts of the retaining wall. According to their official statement, repair works are scheduled to commence “shortly” near Tantra Hill, Accra. This assurance comes as a welcome relief to those who depend on this critical piece of infrastructure daily.

A video posted by Buzstopboys brought the damage to the reinforcement walls to public attention. The GHA has clarified that the issue is localized spalling, a form of surface degradation, which has exposed the rebars, or reinforcing bars, within the concrete. “An earlier assessment undertaken by our team of engineers revealed spalling over a localised area of the retaining wall. This situation has exposed the rebars, leading to theft by unscrupulous individuals,” the GHA stated. This exposure has, regrettably, made the rebars a target for thieves, exacerbating the problem.

The GHA has emphasized its commitment to carrying out repairs promptly to prevent further deterioration of the structure. The Authority also strongly condemned the vandalism and theft of materials from the underpass, highlighting the seriousness of these actions.

Tampering with public infrastructure is a criminal offense with significant legal ramifications. “Tampering with public infrastructure is a criminal offense punishable by law under the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012, (LI 2180), section 114, subsection 4(b),” the GHA stated, underscoring the importance of respecting and protecting public assets. The GHA urges residents and commuters to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or the Public Affairs Division of the Ghana Highway Authority.

The Buzstopboys video sparked a range of reactions among the public. Many road users expressed criticism regarding the damage, often attributing it to the activities of scrap dealers. This public response underscores a broader concern about the maintenance and security of public infrastructure, with people directly impacted by its condition.

In conclusion, while damage to the retaining wall of the Achimota-Ofankor underpass is evident, the Ghana Highway Authority has moved to reassure the public that the structure’s safety remains uncompromised. With repairs slated and a call for increased vigilance against vandalism, maintaining the integrity of vital infrastructure like the Achimota-Ofankor underpass stands as a shared responsibility. Staying informed about repair progress and heeding advisories issued by the GHA is paramount for all road users. Preserving this infrastructure ensures continued road safety and smooth traffic flow for the community.