Residents and artisans in Suame Magazine, Kumasi, have blocked the main Suame-Maakro road to protest the ongoing unfinished construction of the Suame interchange, citing serious health and safety concerns.
According to the demonstrators, the dusty and potholed road conditions, resulting from construction delays, pose major respiratory health risks and make commuting extremely difficult. Many artisans, whose livelihoods depend on customers visiting their workshops, claim the dust from the unfinished road is damaging their products and discouraging clients.
Car dealers and mechanics in the area have also raised concerns about economic losses, noting that dust accumulation on vehicles and equipment makes them appear worn out and unsellable.
Construction engineers at the site have warned that traders encroaching on the interchange area are putting themselves at risk and slowing down rehabilitation efforts. Previous studies also highlight long-term health hazards for artisans in Suame, with elevated levels of heavy metals like lead, iron, and copper recorded due to prolonged exposure in the work environment.
The protesting artisans insist that the road must be properly asphalted and dust-control measures implemented, such as regular road watering, to ensure both safety and business continuity. Until these issues are addressed, the demonstrators have pledged to maintain their blockade.
Source: Thepressradio.com
