GECA Calls For Urgent Action To Curb Streetlights Theft

The Ghana Electrical Contractors Association (GECA) has expressed concern about the alarming rate of streetlights disappearance in Ghana, particularly on the Accra-Tema motorway.

The Association said this disturbing trend underscores the need for immediate attention and a lasting solution.

In a statement, GECA said the lack of adequate and functioning streetlights poses significant risks to public safety, national security, and economic development.

It is unacceptable that major highways, residential areas, and commercial centres remain shrouded in darkness, facilitating crime and accidents.

GECA’s concerns follows a report last week that many of the street lights and poles installed in 2021 along the Accra-Tema motorway have disappeared, while the few remaining poles are damaged.

The disappearance of the street lights along the 19-km route has left authorities struggling to explain their whereabouts.

However, the association has said this is not an isolated incident; numerous areas nationwide suffer from similar neglect.

GECA believes this situation is an indictment on Ghanaian Engineers, Contractors, and Authorities responsible for maintaining public infrastructure.

They have therefore urged stakeholders including the Energy Ministry, Ministry of Roads and Highways, Energy Commission, Electricity Company of Ghana, Department of Urban Roads, Ghana Highway Authority and Local Government Authorities to take immediate action.

Additionally, GECA is among other things, demanding a thorough assessments of streetlight
infrastructure nationwide, replace stolen or damaged lights with energy-efficient, durable alternatives, enhance security measures to prevent theft and vandalism.

In the long term, GECA has also proposed the investment in modern, smart streetlight technology, development of public-private partnerships for streetlight management, strengthening institutional frameworks for maintenance and oversight among others.

GECA has pledged to offer its expertise and resources to the government in addressing this
critical issue.

 

 

 

 

 

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