Tanker drivers strike over hazardous Valco-Kpone road

By Hubeyidatu Mumuni 

Petroleum tanker drivers have begun a sit-down strike over the deteriorating condition of the 7.2-kilometre Valco Roundabout-Kpone Junction road in Tema.

The drivers say the deplorable state of the road poses serious safety risks, particularly as they use the route to transport highly inflammable petroleum products.

Speaking to Citi News, National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, George Nyawunu, said the drivers were compelled to take the action because the road had become increasingly dangerous.

He said although a contractor is currently on site, the pace of rehabilitation works has been frustratingly slow.

“The road has become very dangerous for us. We transport petroleum products, so we cannot afford to take unnecessary risks because of the condition of the road,” Mr Nyawunu said.

According to the drivers, the deteriorating road is not only affecting their operations but also increasing the risks associated with the transportation of petroleum products within the Tema enclave.

The concerns are heightened by the presence of several petroleum storage depots in the area, which contain millions of litres of fuel and LPG.

Mr Nyawunu warned that any major accident involving a tanker could have devastating consequences for residents and businesses in the area.

“Given the high concentration of volatile materials in the area, we are effectively sitting on a potential time bomb if the infrastructure is not urgently addressed,” he cautioned.

The tanker drivers are therefore calling on the government and relevant authorities to expedite the rehabilitation of the road to reduce the risks to motorists, tanker operators and communities within the Tema enclave.