Petroleum tanker drivers are beginning a sit-down strike today over the deteriorating condition of the 7.2-kilometre Valco Roundabout-Kpone Junction road in Tema.

The drivers say the poor state of the road poses serious safety risks, particularly as they transport highly inflammable petroleum products through the area.

Speaking to Citi  News, National Chairman of the Union, George Nyawunu, said the drivers have been forced to take action because the road has become increasingly dangerous.

He said although a contractor is currently on site, progress on the rehabilitation works has been frustratingly slow.

According to the drivers, the deteriorating road is not only affecting their operations but also increasing the risks associated with transporting petroleum products through the Tema enclave.

The concerns are heightened by the fact that the area houses several petroleum storage depots containing millions of litres of fuel and LPG.

“Given the high concentration of volatile materials in the area, stakeholders caution that the entire Tema township and its surrounding communities are effectively sitting on a potential time bomb if the infrastructure is not urgently addressed”, he said.