Many commuters use trotros as the cheapest means of transport at the Accra–Tema Station. A number of these vehicles, referred to as "konko cars," are however, old, damaged and unsuitable for public use. Passengers suffer injuries, health risks and emotional distress due to the consequences of such inconvenience.
People are often injured when riding along such substandard vehicles. Collapsing seats, cutting metal, and compromised doors all pose risks. For an unsuspecting commuter, what should be a normal commute can be a painful and uncomfortable experience.
Unsafe konko cars also pose a health risk to the passengers. Poorly maintained engines emit smoke and broken windows can let dust in, which can cause respiratory health issues and other chronic health conditions. The welfare of commuters who are exposed to these conditions every day is at risk.
These vehicles are also in bad shape, which has a negative effect on their passengers. People often travel on konko buses with fear, as they don't know whether they will make it to their destination or not. They see the loud rattling, squeaking noises, and rust that they can hear and touch, and know that all trips have some risk.
However, due to cost restrictions, many passengers are still traveling in the konko cars, despite the risks. The low fares make them the only viable choice for students, traders and low income earners who are unable to afford more secure options. This means that many commuters have to opt for lower costs rather than safety every day.
Numerous victims think transport companies are to blame for not ensuring the safety of the general public when it comes to these hazardous vehicles. They wonder why cars with visibly-damaged components continue to be approved for the road and run. Increased enforcement and inspections may help to mitigate passenger risk.
The konko car problem is not limited to the act of transportation; victims' experiences demonstrate this. Some people are also at additional cost due to injuries and medical bills, and are vulnerable to lost income, which reveals flaws in road safety enforcement. As long as the unsafe vehicles remain on the road and strict laws are not enforced, commuters will be forced to pay the unspoken price of survival with their health, safety and dignity
Awww my experience hmm. I went through a lot
ReplyDeleteThese cars must be checked. Even if it’s government loans that will be given to them, it’s fine
ReplyDeleteEveryone needs money but these cars must be checked
ReplyDeleteThis is a serious issue the DVLA must work on
ReplyDeleteThe cars don’t even look say hmmm they should stop using them
ReplyDeleteThis should be checked
ReplyDeleteHmmmm, these cars. DVLA WAKE UP
ReplyDeleteThank you for this informative article. Our safety is very important
ReplyDeleteTrotro drivers with these kind of cars should be arrested
ReplyDeleteThe government should work on these cars
ReplyDeleteMy sister was a victim of Konko car accident and was really bad
ReplyDeleteI’m very glad there are only a few of this rickety cars now. The drivers are not even remorseful when someone is pricked or hurt
ReplyDeleteAwwww , this thing . It tore my dress one day on my way to work .
ReplyDeleteMmm, Affordable transportation should never come at the expense of commuters’ safety and health … so disheartening to see
ReplyDelete