Minister demands end to Bauxite, Manganese haulage on Highway

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, raised concerns about bauxite and manganese transport. This haulage often damages the Tarkwa to Takoradi road.

During an inspection of the Agona-Nkwanta to Takoradi road, he noted it is 33.3% complete. He praised JUSTMOH Construction for their quality work and adherence to a 24-hour construction model.

However, he stressed that no serious country allows heavy goods on expensive roads. He called for urgent talks to stop transporting bauxite and manganese by road.

The Agona-Nkwanta to Takoradi road project started on March 19, 2024. It is a 36-month project and is now 12 months into construction. JUSTMOH Construction has completed 90% of earthworks and finished 56 out of 67 culverts.

They have also completed two out of four bridges. The Minister expressed frustration over trucks using roads built with taxpayer money. He noted that transporting materials by road shortens the lifespan of these roads.

Project Engineer Kofi Adjei Frimpong updated the Minister on construction progress. He stated that JUSTMOH has enough construction materials despite payment delays. However, he mentioned challenges due to insufficient funds for compensation.

He highlighted a positive aspect: they are recycling asphalt for the project. Despite material availability, compensation issues have slowed down construction in the area.