The communities of Bolgatanga Sherigu and surrounding areas are preparing to embark on a major demonstration if the contractor responsible for the Bolgatanga-Sherigu-Naaga road is not called back to complete the project.
At a press conference, Hon. Stephen Abelimah Abugre, Assemblyman for the Kumblingo Electoral Area and presiding member of the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly, expressed his dismay over the situation. The road, awarded to Araco Construction Limited in 2018 for construction, was meant to span 30.85 kilometers. The contractor officially began work in 2019, bringing hope to the community that the days of dusty roads and transportation difficulties were coming to an end.
However, five years later, that hope has faded. Instead of completing the road within the promised 24 months, the contractor has abandoned the site, leaving the road in a deplorable state. Residents now face significant hardships as they navigate daily on the unfinished road.
The delay in completing the Bolgatanga-Sherigu-Naaga road has severe implications for local communities. The dusty conditions have led to increased respiratory issues, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. The dry season exacerbates the problem, as dust clouds envelop homes, schools, and businesses along the road.
Hon. Abugre also pointed out the deterioration of the road itself. Previously manageable potholes have deepened into hazardous craters filled with water, creating dangerous conditions for road users, especially during the rainy season. The muddy and slippery road often leaves farmers and traders stranded, as vehicles and motorbikes struggle to navigate the treacherous path.
According to Hon. Abugre, the contractor has been paid for the project but chose to vacate the site. “Information available to us indicates that all necessary funds have been disbursed to Araco Construction Limited. Yet, the contractor has abandoned the project, and we have seen no progress,” he stated. He called into question the supervisory role of the government, particularly the Ghana Highways Authority, in ensuring the contractor fulfills its obligations.
“This is a gross betrayal of trust,” he remarked. “We cannot continue to suffer in silence while our road remains impassable, our health deteriorates, and our livelihoods are at risk.”
Residents emphasize that mere complaints are no longer sufficient. They are urging government officials—including the Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, Rex Asanga, Upper East Regional Minister, Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, and Minister of Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye—to intervene immediately. They demand that Araco Construction Limited return to the site and complete the road by the end of 2024, asserting their frustration with empty promises and delays.
Mr. Samuel Adongo Apaare, a local resident, lamented the deplorable state of the road, stating that the contractor has left the community more vulnerable than before. He urged the government to hold the contractor accountable and ensure the completion of the project.
Madam Priscila Adombire echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the road’s condition poses risks to pregnant women and has led to miscarriages. She also noted that local businesses are suffering, with many forced to close due to the road’s poor condition.
The residents of Bolgatanga Sherigu are united in their call for action, determined to advocate for the completion of a road that is critical to their health and economic wellbeing.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Ayuureneeya