Sokoban New Site residents protest due to dust and increasing respiratory cases

Residents of Sokoban New Site in the Kumasi metropolis are expressing concern over a perceived increase in respiratory illnesses among children and adults, attributing this trend to persistent dust from the area’s untarred roads.

Many parents are warning that the situation may deteriorate further if immediate action is not taken to repair the deteriorating roads, which have been in a state of disrepair for years.

Construction work on the Sokoban New Site road commenced in 2019 as part of efforts to rehabilitate major roads in Kumasi.

However, residents have indicated that the project has since been abandoned, leaving the road dusty during the dry season and muddy during the rainy season.

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, local residents held a peaceful protest to express their frustration with the stalled project and the health hazards it continues to pose.

Community leaders have reported an increase in crime, which they attribute to the poor road conditions and lack of proper infrastructure.

Esther Amua, a resident, spoke during the protest, highlighting the daily difficulties faced by the community.

“This community faces numerous challenges. During rainfall, residents must contend with mud. Frequent mechanic visits are necessary to inspect tires, which are prone to punctures. In the absence of rain, dust is a significant issue. When driving past pedestrians, one cannot help but feel that they are being subjected to dust,” she stated.

Another resident, who gave her name as Esther, said she joined the protest despite having to report to work.

“This morning I have to be at work, but I am here because I am a concerned citizen of the area. I have stayed here for 12 years. At the time, the road was small, but about six years ago, they came to tell us that they wanted to construct the roads and gutters.

“We became happy when we saw the contractors on the roads. When they started with the construction, they widened the road because it is a major road. Only for the contractors to leave the site.

“Election after election, they stopped coming. In the last election, I decided not to vote because I can’t pay taxes, and I live on such a bad road,” she said.

Residents are appealing to the relevant authorities to intervene and ensure the completion of the stalled road project to ease their burden and safeguard their health.