Residents are calling on the City of Windhoek to expedite the configuration of traffic lights along Eneas Peter Nanyemba Road, citing congestion and safety concerns at the intersection.

The intersection, which forms part of the upgraded Monte Christo Road, features dual carriageways, traffic lights, pavements and street lighting. However, the flashing red lights have left motorists treating it as a four-way stop.

Road users say the situation causes long queues, particularly during peak hours, while some motorists fail to stop, increasing the risk of accidents.

"Especially during the morning and evening hours, there is long congestion. Many people do not adhere to traffic rules, which is why there are so many accidents. When one person stops, the next person drives through without stopping," said motorist Naftal Hamukwaya.

Another motorist, King Edward, says the congestion delays commuters travelling to and from town.

"Because you used to struggle. Maybe when you are coming from a mix, or maybe when you are going to mix, you used to drive that road, but you used to maybe like a long convoy from here. Maybe if you want to go to town, it's a long convoy."

Petrus Hamukwaya says the lack of coordination among motorists also puts pedestrians, including schoolchildren, at risk.

"No one wants to stop at the robot. Everyone wants to go. That's why we end up almost bumping into each other or hitting schoolchildren."

The City of Windhoek spokesperson Harold Akwenye says the traffic lights must first be configured before they can operate properly.

"The department needs to configure them in order for them to start working, because they were working before. At this point in time, they are flickering, basically making it a four-way stop. So, I'm urging road users to give us some time to configure them and get them working again."

Meanwhile, motorists are urged to obey traffic rules and exercise caution at the intersection.