The interruption of traffic on the Bobo-Banfora road, following the damage to the Tarfila bridge, is not without consequences for the Banforalese. The economy has taken a hit and some basic necessities like gas and fuel are starting to become scarce.
The heavy rains that fell on October 7 and 8, 2024 damaged the Tarfila bridge. Traffic was banned by the authorities. A week later, the consequences are hard felt by truck drivers, the public and road users. In the town of Banfora, some gas stations are starting to run out of fuel. Already at the stations, it is not uncommon to see tortuous rows, the wait is long at these stations which have fuel because many stations lack it in the town of Banfora. Butane gas is also starting to become scarce. Dame Sourabié, a resident of Banfora, said she went around the town this Monday, October 14, with her two gas bottles of six kilograms and twelve kilograms empty, without being able to win her case. “We hope that rapid solutions to this bridge issue will be found, otherwise at the rate things are going it will not be easy for citizens,” calls out Dame Sourabié. This is also the opinion of a truck driver parked around 120 hours ago. “What we want is for them to come quickly and fix the bridge and we will pass,” he says, his heart full of disappointment.
The economic impact
Around the Tarfila bridge, the spectacle is both sad and impressive. Long lines of trucks parked for a distance of at least 8 km, from Tarfila to the other side of Banfora town. Some truckers even parked in six-meter boxes while waiting for traffic to be restored. Road traffic between Bobo-Dioulasso and Banfora was recently interrupted due to various incidents, including road accidents and maintenance works on national road 7. This situation caused significant traffic jams and impacted transport of goods and passengers. Local authorities have installed diversions to ease traffic flow, but users have expressed frustration with long waiting times. Increased safety measures have also been introduced to prevent accidents, with increased road checks. The economic impacts are notable, as this route is crucial for trade between the two cities. Local merchants, in particular, are suffering losses due to the disruption of deliveries. Authorities are actively working to restore traffic while improving infrastructure to avoid future problems. Road safety awareness campaigns are also planned to encourage responsible driving.
Besseri Frédéric Ouattara/Correspondent
Related News :