Kumasi: Following the recent spate of accidents in the country, some residents in the Kumasi metropolis have called on the government to re-examine the country's transportation system and put stringent measures in place to ensure the safety of Ghanaians. They proposed that the government constructed dual roads and railway lines to connect major cities and towns, invest in Ghana's air transportation system and the Meteorological Agency, to provide accurate and timely weather information for both motorists and travelers to help prevent accidents. The government should also work to mount traffic lights and road signs to foster safe transportation services across the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, the residents made these comments after a terrible helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight government officials in a forest reserve at Brofoyedu Sikaman in the Adansi South District. They pointed out the need for efficient, safe, and reliable transportation systems in Ghana. The late government officials were Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. Others included Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Former Parliamentary Candidate; Squadron Leader Peter, Pilot; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
Mr. Kofi Adu Poku, a resident of Bantama, expressed that the rising spate of accidents on both roads and airspace is a wake-up call for the government to urgently re-examine the country's transportation system. He noted the poor road network and suggested that better road conditions might have prevented the officials from opting for air travel in adverse weather conditions. He also recalled a recent road accident on the Accra-Kumasi road that claimed the lives of over 10 youths.
Mr. Poku highlighted the fear and panic spreading among the public due to frequent road and aircraft crashes. Meanwhile, some citizens attributed the helicopter crash to spiritual manipulations in the country. Ms. Mary Adwoa Manu, a seamstress at Adum, described the deaths of the government officials as painful and urged Ghanaians to pray for the nation, emphasizing the abnormality and spiritual nature of the recent tragic events.
