By Josephine Sesay

Residents of east Freetown face increasing challenges due to the deteriorating condition of key roads and bridges. The Kissy Bypass Road, commonly known as the Old Road, has suffered significant structural damage, with large fractures appearing on its retaining walls and portions of the structure already collapsed. This damage poses a serious risk of blocking vehicular access to vital areas, including Kissy Mess Mess.

Compounding the issue, Newcastle Street—the alternative route for emergency access—has also experienced severe deterioration. The bridge supporting this street has sustained considerable damage, further limiting safe passage for residents and emergency vehicles.

Two weeks ago, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) took the precautionary step of shutting down the Newcastle Bridge in Kissy due to concerns over its structural integrity. The damage to the bridge’s metal supports occurred after a heavily loaded trailer crossed it, raising fears of an impending collapse.

These developments have left residents and local leaders deeply concerned. James Kallon, a local youth leader, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that without swift action, access to this part of Freetown would soon be completely blocked off to vehicular movements.

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has previously addressed infrastructure vulnerabilities in the area. In October 2024, intense rainfall led to severe flooding and widespread damage across several communities, including the collapse of a building at 57 Bai Bureh Road in the Shell area of Kissy, resulting in multiple casualties.

Immediate intervention by the SLRA and other relevant authorities is crucial to repair and reinforce these critical infrastructures. Failure to act promptly risks further compromising the safety and mobility of thousands of residents in eastern Freetown.