Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, and Second Deputy Minority Whip, has raised concerns over the underutilisation of pedestrian footbridges across Ghana, highlighting the dire consequences of pedestrian negligence in high-traffic areas.

In a statement delivered in Parliament, the lawyer emphasised the government’s commitment to road safety through significant investments in footbridge construction.

He noted these bridges were strategically placed to prevent pedestrian accidents, particularly in urban centers such as Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. However, despite these efforts, many pedestrians continued to ignore the footbridges, opting instead to jaywalk across busy highways.

“The failure to use footbridges not only jeopardises the safety of individuals but also results in the loss of lives and serious injuries,” he stated, pointing to alarming pedestrian accident statistics.

He lamented many of these fatalities could have been avoided if footbridges were used as intended.

Mr Ahmed Shaib proposed a comprehensive approach to addressing this issue, calling for:

1. Public Awareness Campaigns: He urged stakeholders to intensify education on the importance of using footbridges through mass media, schools, and community engagement programs.

2. Stronger Enforcement of Road Safety Laws: He advocated for the introduction of fines for pedestrians who refuse to use footbridges and for drivers who fail to prioritize pedestrian safety.

3. Improved Footbridge Design and Accessibility: He stressed the need for footbridges to be more user-friendly, particularly for the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities. He also called for proper lighting and signage to enhance visibility at night.

4. Collaboration with Law Enforcement: He recommended that the Ghana Police Service, the National Road Safety Authority, and traffic wardens intensify monitoring and enforcement in high-risk areas to ensure compliance.

The lawmaker specifically urged the Minister of Roads and Highways to prioritise the completion of the Tetegu footbridge in the Weija-Gbawe constituency, ensuring its swift commissioning for pedestrian use.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility,” he concluded. “While the government provides the necessary infrastructure, it is up to us as citizens to use them responsibly.

“Let us work together to reduce pedestrian accidents and make our roads safer for all.”

His statement reinforces the urgent need for a cultural shift in pedestrian behaviour, ensuring government investments in road safety infrastructure yielded the intended benefits.