Residents of 10th Avenue, McCarthy Hill, are living under constant threat as a severely damaged electricity pole stands precariously supported only by a makeshift wooden stick. The pole, which appears to have been burnt at its base, is visibly tilted and shows signs of a weakened root system, raising fears it could snap and fall at any moment.
Eyewitnesses describe the structure as a clear accident waiting to happen. The lower section of the wooden pole is charred and hollowed out, suggesting it was exposed to fire some time ago. With its foundation compromised, the pole now leans dangerously towards the roadside, held upright solely by the temporary prop. Power lines attached to it remain live, heightening the risk of electrocution, fire outbreaks, or widespread power outages if the pole collapses.
McCarthy Hill, a fast-growing residential community in Accra, has seen rapid infrastructural development in recent years. However, many electricity poles in the area are ageing and poorly maintained. Locals say this particular pole has been in its current state for weeks, yet no immediate action has been taken by the authorities. “Every day we pass under it and pray it doesn’t fall on a vehicle or a child,” said one resident who declined to be named for fear of reprisal.
The potential consequences are severe. A falling pole could damage nearby homes, block the busy 10th Avenue road, or cause serious injury to pedestrians and motorists. In the worst-case scenario, snapped live wires could spark fires in a community already battling erratic power supply.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is yet to issue any statement on the matter. Residents are calling on the company and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to urgently replace the faulty pole before disaster strikes. Safety experts warn that such makeshift supports are never a long-term solution and only delay inevitable failure.
Until decisive action is taken, the people of 10th Avenue continue to live in fear, hoping the next strong wind or passing heavy vehicle does not trigger a catastrophe. The time for temporary fixes is over; McCarthy Hill deserves reliable and safe electricity infrastructure.
Name: Yirenkyi Yahaya
Email address:yirenyahaya@gmail.com
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