Tarkwa: The Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Assembly (TNMA) in the Western Region has officially opened the 'access way' at the Tarkwa main lorry station. The move by the assembly has already brought some form of joy to drivers, traders, and passengers, who have expressed their grievances over the years.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Derrick Obeng, the Municipal Urban Roads Engineer, explained that during the construction of the 67-kilometer Agona Nkwanta-Tarkwa road, a median was created at the Tarkwa main station stretch. However, this median failed to provide direct access to drivers entering or exiting the station. This led to a request from the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) to create direct access for transport operators, making it easier for those traveling to Accra and beyond, as they were struggling to find a place to turn after loading.
Mr. Obeng also pointed out that vehicles with issues faced difficulties climbing the Tarkwa post office hill. The request was escalated to Mr. Ebenezer Cobbinah, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tarkwa Nsuaem. Since the road was under the supervision of the Ghana Highway Authority, the MCE officially wrote to them for approval. Following this, a team of engineers was brought in to assess and identify areas where openings could be made for transport operators. They recommended creating five accesses.
Currently, all exits of the station have been opened, allowing drivers to exit directly after loading without needing to make a U-turn. Additionally, only one entry has been created. Taxi drivers wishing to come to the Takoradi station with passengers and goods can now turn into the station directly and offload the passengers with their wares. An access was also created for the personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service to enable them to move out easily and attend to emergencies as needed.
Mr. Obeng advised pedestrians to use designated crossing areas in the municipality, emphasizing the importance of crossing only when the traffic light turns red. He also urged transport operators to utilize the newly provided opportunity responsibly to avoid disrupting traffic flow at the Tarkwa main lorry station.
Mr. Cobbinah assured residents that the assembly would erect road signs at all approved locations promptly, as drivers from other regions also use the road.