Why Pedestrians Are Avoiding Footbridges—Insights from Mr. Woode’s Investigation
Despite heavy investments by the Government of Ghana in constructing footbridges across major highways to promote road safety many pedestrians in Accra still refuse to use them. Areas such as Tetegu, Mallam Market, Madina and others continue to record cases of pedestrians dangerously crossing busy roads, ignoring the safety infrastructure provided.
This alarming trend continues despite the tireless efforts of institutions such as the National Road Safety Authority, the Accident Victims Support Foundation and other stakeholders who are constantly campaigning to reduce road accidents and protect lives.
Renowned blogger and content creator Mr. Woode of mrwoode.com as part of his civic engagement series visited several of these locations such as Mallam Market and Madina to interact with pedestrians who regularly avoid using the footbridges. The aim was to understand why they risk their lives by crossing directly on the highway when a safer option exists.
Surprisingly, nearly all the pedestrians interviewed pointed to one common challenge: the height of the footbridges. According to them the bridges are too high and physically demanding to climb especially for the elderly, traders carrying loads, pregnant women and people with health conditions.
Some of the respondents suggested a more practical alternative. They called on the government and stakeholders in road infrastructure to consider a different design approach. Instead of having pedestrians climb high footbridges they propose that future designs should allow vehicles to pass on top (overpasses) while pedestrians walk safely underneath.
One elderly woman at Madina remarked, Climbing the bridge is like climbing a mountain. I get tired before I even reach the top. If there’s a way for us to walk underneath while the cars pass above it will be easier for everyone.
Another young man at Mallam Market shared, We understand the government is helping us with these bridges but most people just find it hard to use. That’s why we risk crossing the road directly.
This feedback raises serious concerns and offers a critical opportunity for policymakers and engineers to review current infrastructure designs. While safety remains the top priority accessibility and usability are equally important if the goal is to encourage more people to use these facilities.
As calls grow louder for more user-friendly designs, it is clear that while footbridges serve a valuable purpose their effectiveness is limited if the people they are built for find them difficult to use.
Mr. Woode’s initiative highlights the importance of community engagement in solving everyday challenges and ensuring that government projects truly serve the needs of the people.