Wednesday, 26 February

Legal battles bitting Ofankor-Nsawam highway construction

General News
Commuters suffering over the delays in construction

The Ofankor-Nsawam Highway, a crucial route linking Accra to Kumasi and other parts of Ghana, has become a nightmare for motorists due to worsening road conditions amid prolonged construction delays.

The highway, which has been under construction since September 2022, is now plagued by mud, dust, and impassable sections, creating severe challenges for commuters.

The situation took a turn for the worse following heavy rains on Monday night, leaving parts of the road submerged and vehicles trapped in deep mud.

The Sapeiman to Amasaman stretch has been the hardest hit, with massive traffic congestion forming due to the rains.

Similarly, the Pobiman to Pokuase section is covered in dust, worsening visibility and air quality for both drivers and residents.

The absence of the contractor from the site has further deepened the frustration of road users, many of whom struggle daily to navigate the deteriorating terrain.

The $350 million highway project was originally set for completion within 24 months, but work has stalled due to over 80 pending court cases.

Many of these legal disputes involve property owners challenging demolitions or seeking compensation, causing significant delays in the project’s execution.

The Ministry of Roads and Highways has cited these legal battles as a major obstacle preventing the swift continuation of construction work.

With the highway rapidly deteriorating, frustrated drivers are urging the government to expedite the resolution of legal disputes and ensure full-scale construction resumes immediately.

The expansion and rehabilitation of the Ofankor-Nsawam Highway are expected to ease congestion, boost trade and commerce, and improve road safety.

However, until the court cases are resolved and construction resumes, commuters will continue to endure daily gridlocks, vehicle damage, and worsening travel conditions on one of Ghana’s busiest highways.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah