UNAUTHORIZED SIDEWALK OCCUPATIONThe phenomenon persists in Parakou
By definition, a sidewalk is the part of the public road reserved exclusively for pedestrian traffic, according to Gontran Bossou, Head of the CNSR (National Road Safety Center) Northern Zone Branch. However, in the city of Parakou, the situation is quite different: these spaces are increasingly being transformed into makeshift parking lots and commercial areas.
Although road safety regulations explicitly prohibit any unauthorized use of sidewalks when it obstructs free movement, the practice persists.
When questioned on the matter, Gontran Marc N. Bossou, Head of the Northern Zone Branch of the National Road Safety Center, was categorical: “Sidewalks are neither parking lots nor permanent sales areas. Their use constitutes an offense when it compromises the safety of road users. This rule is also enshrined in the general principles of the Highway Code in force in Benin.” “
On the ground, frustration is growing among citizens. Ms. Elisabeth, a user of the Gbira-Guema road, expresses her bitterness: “People park haphazardly, as if the road belongs exclusively to them, creating enormous traffic problems. Since awareness campaigns have had almost no effect, I propose that firm sanctions be applied to offenders from now on.”
Faced with this worrying situation, the National Road Safety Council (CNSR) is not standing idly by and is deploying several measures, the Head of the Local Office assures us:
Regular awareness campaigns for road users and merchants.
Targeted information campaigns on the major dangers associated with road congestion.
Close collaboration with the Republican Police, the municipality, and the relevant authorities to enforce regulations.
The ultimate goal remains the same: to guarantee smoother traffic flow in the city of Kobourou and, above all, to protect pedestrians’ lives.
” Azoumi KORA and Alvine ALLOGOGO (Interns)
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