Chief Superintendent Mahmud Yussif, the Northern Regional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), has advised residents of Tamale and its surrounds that the newly constructed Tamale junction is not pedestrian-friendly.
Residents, he claims, will be putting their lives in danger if they refuse to use the interchange's overpass.
"Given the nature of the project, it is pedestrian-unfriendly and clearly not designed for pedestrians, but rather for automobiles." It was built to relieve traffic congestion in the central business sector, but even our motorcycles are not permitted to use it."
According to information acquired by DGN Online, youngsters have begun to use the interchange's bridge as a playground.
Other people have been observed strolling on the overpass, which is designed for automobiles.
One person is said to have fallen from the overpass just days after it was opened, according to reports.
Police officers will be deployed out to teach citizens on how to use the interchange, according to the MTTD Commander.
"We'll physically be there to assist educate and instruct folks on what to do and what not to do when they arrive at the interchange."
To avoid any mishaps, he urged locals to follow the traffic laws around the intersection.
On March 29, 2022, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo officially opened the Tamale interchange in the Northern Region.
The Tamale interchange is the first of its type in the Northern Region, and it will help not just commerce and regional integration, but also traffic management in Tamale, thanks to its closeness to Burkina Faso.
Around the interchange is a 1.1-kilometer bridge with ramps, drainage improvements, lamps, and a 10-kilometer asphalt overlay.
President Akufo-Addo has directed that the Ministry of Roads and Highways work with the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly to establish a prime line that is appropriate for the interchange's status.
"During the design time, the Ministry of Roads and Highways must guarantee that the Tamale interchange is maintained. I urge all users of the facility, particularly drivers, to follow the numerous road safety measures.