By Thaimu T Kamara

Residents of Magbema Chiefdom in Kambia District have raised urgent concerns over a deteriorating road culvert that they say poses a significant threat to lives and livelihoods. The structure, located between Malal and Meseneh villages near the district power house, has been described by locals as a “death trap” due to its fragile condition and lack of maintenance.

According to Mr. Mohamed Bangura, the culvert has suffered years of erosion, leaving it structurally weakened and increasingly unsafe for daily use. The road serves as a vital link for residents, including farmers transporting goods, schoolchildren commuting to classes, and traders traveling between villages and nearby markets. With no visible repairs or reinforcement efforts underway, fears are growing that the culvert could collapse at any time.

Residents say the danger is particularly acute at night when visibility is poor. The stretch of road lacks adequate lighting, warning signs, or protective barriers, making it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to detect the damaged section in time to avoid accidents.

Several community members reported near-miss incidents involving vehicles that narrowly avoided plunging into the weakened structure.

“We use this road every day, but now we are living in fear,” said Mr Foday Kamara a resident. “At night, it is even worse because you cannot see clearly. If nothing is done soon, people will start losing their lives here.”

Farmers in the area are among those most affected. The road is a key route for transporting agricultural produce to markets within and beyond the district. Any disruption caused by a collapse would not only endanger lives but also severely impact local economic activity. Many farmers rely on timely access to markets to sell perishable goods, and a blocked road could lead to significant financial losses.

Beyond immediate safety concerns, local leaders have warned of broader implications if the culvert fails completely. Its proximity to the district power house means that a collapse could hinder access to critical infrastructure, potentially disrupting electricity supply to surrounding communities. Such an outcome would have far-reaching consequences for households, businesses, and public services that depend on reliable power.

“The issue goes beyond just one road,” A Pastor explained to me in . “If the culvert collapses, it could affect electricity distribution and isolate entire communities. We are talking about access to hospitals, schools, and economic opportunities being cut off.”

Community elders and youth groups have joined voices in calling for urgent intervention from government authorities and development partners. They argue that proactive repairs would be far more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of a disaster, which could include loss of life, expensive reconstruction, and prolonged disruption to essential services.

Residents are specifically appealing for the installation of warning signs, temporary barriers, and immediate structural assessment of the culvert. They also emphasize the need for long-term rehabilitation work to ensure the road remains safe and functional for years to come.

Despite repeated concerns raised at the local level, community members say little has been done so far to address the problem. This has fuelled frustration and a growing sense of neglect among residents, who feel their safety is being overlooked.

“We cannot wait until something tragic happens before action is taken,” A Teacher in the community stated. “This is a disaster waiting to happen, and we are calling on those responsible to act now.”

As the rainy season approaches, fears are intensifying that further erosion could accelerate the deterioration of the culvert. Increased water flow during heavy rains may weaken the structure even more, raising the likelihood of sudden collapse.

For now, residents continue to use the road cautiously, hoping that their calls for help will not go unanswered. The situation remains a stark reminder of the critical role infrastructure maintenance plays in ensuring public safety and supporting community development.

Local authorities have yet to issue an official response, but pressure is mounting for immediate action to prevent what many believe could soon become a tragic and avoidable disaster.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 13th April 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)