Commuters on the Takoradi-Tarkwa route endured a harrowing ordeal on Friday when a part of the road near Saint Mary Boys Senior High School became flooded. They had to wade through flooded regions for over an hour from BEAHU to Apremdo in order to board cars to Takoradi. Commuters, some carrying their baggage on their armpits and heads, made their way through the flooded parts to their destinations despite the constant rain throughout the day. Unfortunately, even school buses transporting children were caught up in the confusion, with some of the children feeling anxious as their journey home was delayed.
Parents and helpers jumped in to carry children on their backs, allowing them to cross the "temporary river" safely. These dedicated volunteers also assisted commuters in navigating perilous portions of road. The condition of the road, which resembled deep gullies, left hundreds of stranded vehicles unable to pass through the flooded area. Drivers were understandably hesitant to navigate the treacherous waters for fear of being washed away. Some of the commuters, including this reporter, took it upon themselves to guide the drivers on the best course of action to prevent them from being swept away by the raging floodwaters. Residents of the area were seen navigating their way through the floodwaters to reach their homes, some attempting to salvage a few belongings.
The Saint Mary Boys Senior High School area has gained a notorious reputation among commuters as a flood-prone zone during the rainy season.
Travel from Takoradi to other parts of the Western Region, particularly Tarkwa, Sefwi Wiawso, Elubo, Axim, and Atuabo, was brought to a standstill due to the dire road conditions. Frustrated drivers expressed their grievances, citing the poor state of the road and the lack of a drainage system in the Apowa area as contributing factors to this recurring problem. They said despite multiple appeals through their transport unions, no significant action has been taken to address the situation.
Some opportunistic drivers took advantage of the circumstances to charge exorbitant fares, much to the dismay of the already frustrated commuters.
Expressing disappointment, a German volunteer, Heize Karl, expressed hope that solutions would be found to address this recurring issue.
Most parts of the Western Region have experienced heavy rainfall for nearly a week, resulting in numerous communities, including Awusedjoe and Ayiem, being submerged. In low-lying areas near the Butre River, residents of Ewusedzoe had to seek shelter with family members residing in higher elevations. The Takoradi-Tarkwa road is in terrible condition, with potholes the size of large gullies extending from the blocked intersection to Awusedjoe. Drivers had to rely on their own abilities and knowledge to handle a route that was once a source of pride for the Western Region.
