In a major step to enhance traffic flow and pedestrian safety, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Transport and Aviation has announced a new traffic signal trial across seven key intersections in Freetown.
These locations include Lumley Regent Road, Lumley Beach Road, Lumley Police Station, Aberdeen Road, Murray Town Junction, Congo Cross, and Ferry Junction.
“This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to organize vehicular movement, reduce congestion, and ensure safer crossings for pedestrians,” the ministry stated. The plan involves a phased activation of the new signals from Saturday, November 2, through Sunday, November 10, 2024.
From 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., signals at all seven intersections will operate, while during peak daytime hours (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), signals will only be active at four major junctions: Aberdeen Road, Murray Town Junction, Congo Cross, and Ferry Junction.
The Ministry acknowledges that past trial sessions caused some disruptions and has asked the public for continued patience.
“We regret any inconvenience caused during the trial phase,” the Ministry added. “We’re addressing the associated social concerns, including public education, to ensure this project’s success.”
This testing phase aims to assess both the functionality of the signals and public compliance.
“We’re asking all road users to cooperate with this exercise as we work to bring the signals fully online,” the Ministry urged.
For questions or concerns during the trial period, the public can reach the Ministry through the toll-free line 9090 or call 073980303.