Freetown, 5th May 2026- The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has moved swiftly to restore traffic along the Brima Lane–Portee axis road after heavy rains washed waste into the carriageway, reducing the busy corridor to a single lane and leaving commuters stranded.
The blockage, caused by indiscriminate dumping of garbage into roadside gutters, triggered hours of congestion and heightened safety risks for drivers and pedestrians. The Brima Lane–Portee axis is a vital link connecting Freetown to Waterloo, making the disruption particularly severe for trade and daily movement.
SLRA’s Department of Urban Roads deployed clearance teams to remove the debris and reopen the road. By mid‑day, traffic flow had resumed, a development welcomed by residents and road users.
“We appreciate the quick response. Without it, the situation could have dragged on for days,” said one resident, watching as SLRA workers cleared piles of waste from the gutters.
Community members expressed gratitude but also issued a strong appeal to fellow citizens to stop dumping waste into drains. They warned that irresponsible disposal practices not only block roads but also damage infrastructure and worsen flooding during the rainy season.
SLRA officials emphasized that while the Authority will continue to act promptly in emergencies, long‑term solutions depend on collective responsibility.
“We can clear roads when emergencies arise, but preventing blockages require collective responsibility,” an SLRA spokesperson noted.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of urban waste management in Freetown, where clogged drainage systems frequently disrupt traffic and expose commuters to health and safety risks.
