The 'stoplight' at Torrington Bridge, which is a stone's throw away from Cross Roads, St. Andrew, is a disaster waiting to happen. Pedestrians tread on dangerous ground each time they are forced to walk on the base of the already unstable object. - Photos by Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

WHAT'S NOT WORKING?

The stoplight at Torrington Bridge (the intersection of Slipe Road, Orange Street and Torrington Avenue) is being held in place by a block that has been placed at its base.

SYNOPSIS OF THE SITUATION

The stoplight at Torrington Bridge is a disaster waiting to happen. First, the structure is highly unstable and wobbly. Wobbly aside, the base of the stoplight is another problem. So broad a problem it is that it fully occupies the section of the sidewalk it sits on with a portion of the said base even making its way onto the street. This forces pedestrians (senior citizens, adults and children) to walk in the streets, a risky task that angers business operators of Bridge Way Pub and J&T Restaurant located near the stoplight. It also could cause serious tyre damage that could result in a fatal crash.

"Dem really need fi sort out the stoplight because everybody have to be walking in the road now, whether or not traffic is flowing, because the bottom of the stoplight take over the entire sidewalk," one operator of the pub said. "You have to be very careful out there. Is full time now that them address it though, because I almost certain it been like that since after Hurricane Ivan."

WHO'S RESPONSIBLE?

The National Works Agency (NWA).

WHAT'S THE STATUS?

Colin Morrison, senior communications manager at the NWA, said that he was unaware of the issue, but that it will be investigated.

CONCLUSION

It is mind-boggling how the NWA can have such an unsafe and unsound utility pole under its purview for so long and not know about it. The NWA needs to pull up its socks. This matter needs to be addressed immediately as it poses a serious risk to both motorists and pedestrians.

- Done by Marlon Vickerman,

We want to hear from you!

Tell us about problems in your community. We will visit and help to lobby for action. Write to: Tyrone Reid, the Gleaner Company Limited, 7 North Street, Kingston; Fax: 922-6223, Telephone: 922-3400, ext. 6364 or email: tyrone.reid@gleanerjm.com.