Traders and residents of Winkogo, a community along the Bolgatanga–Tamale highway, have joined local youth in demanding immediate action from authorities over heavy dust pollution generated by trucks and construction machinery on the road.
Residents say daily movement of heavy vehicles has created thick clouds of dust, forcing families to breathe unhealthy air while exposing children and the elderly to serious health risks. Traders complain that the situation is also hurting their businesses, as food and water sold by the roadside are constantly covered in dust.
On Monday, January 19, food sellers and traders blocked sections of the highway to protest what they described as prolonged neglect and inaction by authorities. The protesters said road works had stalled for weeks, worsening the dust problem, despite repeated appeals for regular watering of the road to reduce its impact.
Speaking to Bolga FM, Damon Ayimbila Awaafo said the blockade was a direct response to the poor condition of the road. “The dust coming from this road is affecting our health. We eat dust and drink dust every day,” he said, adding that the community had given the contractor two weeks to return to the site and resume work.
Another trader, Nmabila Akanlgu, said the dust had significantly reduced customer patronage. “I sell food and water, but people are afraid to buy because the dust settles on everything. This is threatening both our livelihoods and our health,” she said.
Residents also warned that continued exposure to the dust puts the lives of children at risk and further undermines local economic activity. They are calling on authorities to urgently resume road works and ensure regular watering of the stretch to protect public health and livelihoods.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga
