OPINION
The Need To Adhere To Usage of Pedestrian Bridges In Jalingo
BY IEEVE AONDOSEER CYPRAIN
Pedestrian bridges are essential infrastructures design to ensure the safety of individuals crossing roads.
They help prevent accidents, facilitate smooth traffic floor, and promote non motorized transportation.
In Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, the government has initiated and constructed six pedestrian bridges to ensure the safety of pedestrians especially in areas considered to be mostly crowded.
Despite these efforts, some of the residents at areas like Kasuwan bera and Mile Six in Jalingo are underutilizing the bridges located in the areas.
The reasons may not be far fetched, fear of heights as some individuals experiences acrophobia, making it challenging for them to use elevated structures.
Physical disabilities is also another factor as the pedestrian bridges lack facilities like ramps or elevators making them inaccessible to people with disabilities.
Another challenge is that some people don’t even know what pedestrian bridges are all about and some people who are in a hurry don’t have time to use the bridges.
Findings showed that some people look at the bridges as decorations on the road.
Therefore, in order to fully utilize the bridges and derive the benefits there in, there is a serious need for public awareness campaigns on the advantages and benefits of using the pedestrian bridges.
This will help in reducing accidents on the roads particularly where such infrastructures are provided.
