Ghana’s Roads Minister, Kwame Agbodza, has ordered an immediate investigation into the rapid deterioration of sections of the newly reconstructed 66km Tarkwa-Agona Nkwanta Road. The €95 million project has shown signs of early deterioration due to consistent overloading by heavy-duty trucks transporting mining products such as manganese and bauxite.
The Project Manager, Mr. Joaquim Ferreira, attributed the early deterioration to the excessive weight of trucks using the road. This led to a surprise visit by the Minister and his team to the Apimanim axle load station, where about 5 trucks were arrested for overloading, some by as much as 20 tonnes.
Agbodza expressed concerns that overloading is damaging the roads and the axle load program is problematic. To address this issue, the Ministry has commissioned a 5-member committee to investigate the activities of the axle load program and improve its effectiveness and efficiency.
The investigation aims to identify the root causes of the problem and recommend solutions to prevent similar issues in the future. The Minister’s swift action demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining the country’s infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The Tarkwa-Agona Nkwanta Road is a critical transportation artery in Ghana, and its maintenance is essential for the country’s economic development. The government has emphasized the importance of infrastructure development and maintenance to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
Kwame Agbodza, a chartered architect and politician, brings a wealth of experience to the role of Minister for Roads and Highways. He has managed significant projects across Ghana and the UK and has held various parliamentary positions, showcasing his dedication to excellence in his field.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
