Accra, Ghana//-The long-awaited expansion project on the Tema-Aflao highway has officially recommenced after a hiatus of about 15 months. The move was prompted by an appeal from the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, urging contractors to return to the site.
During the Minister’s recent tour of road infrastructure sites across the country, he appealed to the contractors, including BHM to return, assuring them of the government’s commitment to unlocking funding tied up in the debt restructuring process.
Speaking to journalists, Kwame Governs Agbodza indicated that the government is highly concerned about the human security of the road.
A move celebrated by local stakeholders and commuters alike. Initiated to enhance the infrastructure connecting Tema, one of Ghana’s main commercial hubs, to Aflao, the border town with Togo.
The project promises to significantly alleviate traffic congestion and improve road safety.
The Tema-Aflao highway expansion project was launched over two years ago, aimed at transforming the highway into a dual carriageway to accommodate increasing vehicular traffic and enhance travel efficiency.
The initial phase saw substantial work completed, including land clearing and preliminary roadworks.
The suspension resulted from Ghana’s late 2022 decision to halt payments on Eurobonds, commercial loans, and the majority of bilateral loans as part of its Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
Speaking on behalf of BHM International Construction Ltd, Client Relations Manager Wisdom Adonu urged the government to reinstate the $105 million loan facility necessary to complete the project within the newly extended 18-month timeline.
“This is our commitment to the project. We have returned to the site, and we appeal to the government to do its part by restoring the loan facility,” he stated.
Motorists using the route faced numerous issues during the project’s lull. Traffic jams became commonplace, often leading to hours of wasted time.
The lack of proper signage and road safety measures raised alarm among drivers, who noted an increase in reckless driving and accidents.
Additionally, potholes and poorly maintained sections of the road created hazardous conditions that endangered both drivers and pedestrians.
“Currently, using the motorway is very challenging and dangerous. We have been struggling to find suitable places to drop off passengers, as some of the bus stops are quite small. I believe the contractor should have designed proper bus stops for drivers to safely drop off passengers.
Additionally, the speed at which large trucks travel, especially while the road is under construction, poses a significant risk, particularly since “trotro” drivers and other motorists share the same road.
As a result of these conditions on the motorway, there is always heavy traffic whenever a vehicle breaks down”. Lamented, Agbey Justice, a “trotro” driver.
Pedestrians also bore the brunt of the challenges, as many areas along the highway lacked designated walkways or crossings.
This forced them to navigate through busy traffic, raising safety concerns and emphasizing the need for pedestrian-friendly features in the ongoing project.
Martina Lebi, a Nurse at Teshie Manna Mission Hospital shared her fears. “Oh! It’s very scary because every day, I see pedestrians darting across the road, and drivers don’t care that you are standing there to cross.
One evening, I witnessed a speeding vehicle knock down a motorcyclist here at Manet Junction, and he was rushed to the hospital. It’s dangerous, and we need proper pedestrian crossings incorporated into this project”. She said
“There are no street lights here, making it difficult to cross this road at night. One evening, after finishing work, I reached this area to cross.
Due to the lack of lighting, a certain woman attempted to cross and was unfortunately struck by a vehicle,” she added.
The Ministry of Roads and Highways aims to ensure that the expansion will not only improve vehicle flow but also incorporate pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, and improved road signage.
Once completed, the Tema-Aflao highway expansion is expected to reduce travel time significantly, lower accident rates, and foster economic growth in the surrounding communities. Businesses along the route anticipate an influx of customers and improved logistics, benefiting the local economy.
As construction progresses steadily, all eyes remain on the development team to deliver on their promise. The timely completion of the Tema-Aflao highway expansion project is critical for improving transportation and quality of life for all who rely on this vital thoroughfare.
