The Sofoline underpass, once feared for its poor lighting and rising security concerns, is now enjoying a new sense of safety after an intervention led by students of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) lit up the tunnel.
For months, the underpass had become a hotspot for criminal activity due to persistent darkness, discouraging many pedestrians from using the facility.
Reports of muggings, attacks, and harassment was common in the tunnel, forcing many pedestrians to risk crossing the busy Sofoline–Abuakwa road instead of using the underpass.
The tunnel, according to users, was a no-go area after dusk because of the darkness.
“Most times, if you pass here alone, you may unfortunately encounter robbers who can snatch your phone and other valuables. That is why many people avoid using the tunnel, even though crossing the road is equally dangerous. The lights really must be fixed,” a concerned pedestrian, Mary Nimako shared.
Moved by the growing danger, a group of Development Management students from KNUST as part of their Social Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy (SEaP) project under the coordinated effort of Dr Victoria Mensah Nyamadi mobilized funds and installed lighting to restore visibility and safety in the tunnel.
Today, the once-dark passage is now brightly lit, giving pedestrians renewed confidence.
“This is truly a great and timely intervention for us users. We are grateful that our concerns have been acknowledged and that help has come through with these lights. At least now, the tunnel is bright,” Nana Antwi, a pedestrian, said with joy.
Another excited pedestrian also praised the intervention.
“Lighting up the place has made the tunnel much safer for us to use. We hope the authorities will take it up from here and improve it further,” Nsiah Isaac said.
Many users say the intervention has transformed their daily commute and reduced fear, especially at night.
For the students, the project is a demonstration of how young people can drive community change when they see a problem and take action.
“As Development Management students, addressing societal challenges is our priority. While we continue to push government to fix these issues, we also believe in playing our part. We will keep identifying social problems and doing what we can to help,” said Adjei Gabriel, the team lead.
The Kwadaso Municipal Assembly has assured users that it will provide interim security to safeguard the tunnel, while working toward a long-term solution to restore and fix the solar lighting systems in all seven tunnels.
“The students’ intervention is highly commendable. I have directed municipal guards to patrol the tunnel day and night to ensure the safety of users. The Assembly is also working with the Regional Urban Roads Department to provide a permanent solution to the lighting problem,” Municipal Chief Executive for Kwadaso, Eric Assibey said.
With the lights now on, pedestrians are once again using the underpass freely, hopeful that this initiative will inspire both authorities and other youth groups to take similar steps.
By Ibrahim Abubakar
