The Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) has raised a red flag over the looming danger posed by poorly erected billboards, cautioning that more structures could collapse during the rainy season if urgent regulatory action is not taken.
With the onset of heavy rains, the risk of billboards toppling over and causing significant property damage, injuries, or even fatalities is a pressing concern. AAG President, Andrews Ackah, has expressed frustration over the continued inaction by relevant authorities despite persistent warnings and calls for stricter oversight.
“It is disheartening that we have repeatedly brought this issue to light, yet it seems authorities only react after tragedies occur,” Ackah lamented on a local news interview.
“We cannot afford to wait for more disasters before taking decisive action. The rains will come, and with them, more of these billboards will fall if nothing is done.” He noted.
Ackah pointed to the alarming trend of billboards being erected in hazardous locations, such as pedestrian walkways and major intersections, posing grave threats to public safety. He emphasized that regulatory bodies must enforce compliance with structural integrity standards and maintenance protocols.
“We have witnessed casualties and extensive property losses due to collapsed billboards in the past. It remains baffling why authorities hesitate to enforce the laws they are mandated to uphold. Either they lack the willpower, or the system is underutilized,” he added.
The AAG is urging swift intervention, including thorough inspections, strict permitting processes, and routine maintenance of billboards to ensure public safety. As the rainy season intensifies, the association stresses that proactive measures are the only way to avert further disasters.
Stakeholders in the advertising and regulatory sectors must collaborate to uphold safety standards and prevent a recurring cycle of destruction and negligence.
