Workers of the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital at Akwapim-Mampong in the Eastern Region on Friday, November 1, 2024, demonstrated to draw public and national attention to the rate at which drivers plying the Accra-Koforidua and Adukrom road knockdown and kill pedestrians including staff of the hospital.

The protest comes after a midwife was knocked down on the road in front of the medical facility.

The young midwife, Ruth Nartey, was reportedly knocked down by a speeding vehicle in front of the hospital on Wednesday, 30th October.

The protestors are drawing attention to the absence of speed ramps on that stretch.

The killing of Ruth Nartey brings to three the number of pedestrians who have been knocked down this year.

Two of the three victims, Ruth and an elderly woman identified as a trader passed on due to the severity of the injuries sustained.

Another victim, a former lab technician of the hospital, is still recuperating.

A leader of the enraged hospital staff who identified himself as Felix said the demonstration would culminate in a sit-down strike in the coming days if this initial action failed to yield the desired result.

In a petition presented to the Akuapem North Municipal Assembly, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association in the Akuapem North Municipality and the staff of Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital proposed the following solutions to prevent further tragedies on this stretch of road.

Construction of Speed Ramps: The installation of speed ramps at appropriate intervals will effectively reduce vehicle speeds in front of the hospital. The presence of speed ramps will require drivers to slow down, thus providing pedestrians with a safer opportunity to cross.

Pedestrian Crosswalks and Signage: Marked pedestrian crosswalks accompanied by clear, visible signage will alert drivers to expect pedestrians to cross, especially during peak hours when the flow of people is highest.

Road Markings and Reflective Lights: Installing reflective road markings and lights at the crosswalks will enhance visibility, particularly at night or during adverse weather conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Speed Limit Signage: Clearly displayed speed limit signs in both directions, supported by enforcement mechanisms where feasible, will remind drivers to reduce their speed in this critical area.

They believe that implementing these safety measures will produce multiple, far-reaching benefits, including reduced Fatalities and injuries, enhanced public trust and safety, and reduced burden on medical staff and resources.

They urgently appealed to the Municipal Chief Executive, the Eastern Regional Minister, and the Department of Highways Authority to act promptly in constructing speed ramps and installing appropriate pedestrian safety measures in front of Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital.

"We are confident that your immediate attention to this petition will help save lives and prevent further injuries along this hazardous stretch of road. Thank you for considering this critical safety request. We look forward to your swift action to avert further preventable tragedies."