The Minister of Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has announced that works on the four major bypasses on the Accra-Kumasi Highway are progressing steadily, with physical completion ranging from 37% to 73% across the various lots.
The projects are the 11.6km Osino bypass, the 6.1km Anyinam bypass, the 10.6km Enyiresi bypass and the 13.5km Konongo bypass.
During an inspection tour, Mr Asenso-Boakye said, so far, the eight Ghanaian contractors working on the project had made significant progress.
The Minister noted that despite the challenges posed by the terrain, significant progress had been made. He pointed out that contractors involved in the project had completed over 60 box culverts and 120 pipe culverts.
Works
He added that they were undertaking earthworks, construction of underpasses and overpasses, construction of bridges, and treatment of swampy areas along the project corridor.
“The contractors have shown great commitment and ingenuity in handling the difficult conditions we face. The progress made so far is commendable, and we are confident that the project will continue to advance steadily.”
Satisfaction
Mr. Asenso-Boakye expressed satisfaction with the quality and standards of work done so far.
“I would have wished that the project would have progressed much faster than this. But we are operating in an area that has suffered from galamsey activities, and is heavily waterlogged and swampy,” the Minister stated.
He indicated that, in some cases, the contractors had to deploy a lot of boulders to solidify the ground, which had delayed some sections of the projects.
Impact
He noted that the bypass projects were expected to have a significant positive impact on the communities along the highway.
He stressed that by redirecting heavy truck traffic away from local roads, the bypasses would reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the affected areas.
Additionally, he indicated that the enhanced road infrastructure would facilitate easier and safer travel for residents and commuters.
Concerns
Mr Asenso-Boakye also addressed concerns about the environmental impact of the construction activities.
“We are committed to ensuring that the construction process is environmentally sustainable. Measures are in place to mitigate any adverse effects, and we are working closely with environmental experts to monitor and manage the impact,” he stated.
The Minister expressed optimism about the continued progress of the bypass projects. He emphasized the government’s commitment to completing the projects within the stipulated timelines while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Background
In June last year, the government mobilized eight local contractors to start the construction of four major bypasses on the Accra-Kumasi highway.
The aim is to reroute traffic, particularly heavy trucks to Kumasi and beyond, allowing it to flow without interference from local traffic.
This effort aims to increase capacity, and improve road safety for vehicles and pedestrians along the route.
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