By Amadou Manjang
Road users along the Sukuta-Serrekunda corridor have raised urgent concerns about the deteriorating condition of the road, calling on the government to address the issue before it worsens. The road has been riddled with potholes, primarily due to the recent rains, making travel hazardous for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The damaged road, heavily frequented by trucks and other vehicles, has become a significant source of frustration for commuters. Users argue that it is the government’s responsibility to maintain critical infrastructure like this.
“The government needs to fix this road as soon as possible. It is their responsibility to repair damaged roads like this Sukuta road. Therefore, I call on the Government of The Gambia to address this issue immediately,” said Mama Saidy, a concerned road user. “They should not wait for us to beg them to act.”
Drivers, who bear the brunt of the damage, expressed dismay over the impact of the road condition on their vehicles.
“The present condition of the road is very bad. It’s damaging our vehicles as we keep bumping into potholes,” lamented Amadou Jallow, a local driver. “There are so many potholes that makes it impossible to drive without hitting them. The government definitely needs to come to our aid and fix this. Driving on the road has become burdensome as we keep swerving to avoid the potholes.”
Pedestrians have also voiced concerns, noting that the damaged road has made walking hazardous.
“The damage to the road is not only affecting drivers; it is also endangering pedestrians. Drivers are now using the pavements because the road is impassable,” said Isatou Sanneh. “We can’t blame them because of the potholes, but it’s unsafe for pedestrians. I think the government needs to fix the road so that drivers can stay on the road and leave the pavement for us.”
The Sukuta-Serrekunda road is a vital link in the area, and residents fear further neglect could exacerbate safety risks and economic impacts. They are urging the government to act promptly to restore the road to a safe and functional state.
