The government has paid off all outstanding obligations to contractors working on the Accra–Tema Motorway and Pokuase roads, according to Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza.
Speaking to Parliament on Tuesday, the Minister affirmed that all financial commitments to these contractors have been fulfilled and refuted rumours that financial arrears were contributing to project delays.
He made these remarks in response to questions posed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin on the terrible traffic jams and delays on the main thoroughfares in Accra and Kumasi.
Mr. Agbodza pointed out that despite ongoing financial obstacles, work is still being done at a number of crucial infrastructure locations.
He clarified that two different contractors have been assigned to oversee Kumasi’s main entry and departure routes, adding that one crew has returned to the site while the other is being persuaded to resume activities.
The Minister told the House, “I’ve been there myself several times, “I know the situation you are talking about. I’ve been there myself on a number of occasions.”
He acknowledged that traffic jams on important thoroughfares, including as the Accra-Tema Motorway, Kasoa-Central University, and Pokuase, pose a significant challenge, particularly on weekends.
However, he stressed that there are ongoing strategic initiatives in place to reduce traffic on all impacted areas.
“On record, the Motorway contract is ongoing and as of this morning, we don’t owe the contractor any amount of money. All outstanding claims have been settled,” he said.
He further confirmed that the Pokuase development is not associated with any unpaid interim payment certifications.
In order to speed up construction and minimise public traffic interruptions, the Minister reassured MPs that the administration is in continuous communication with contractors.
He explained that although debt issues had previously caused operations on the Parliamentary-approved Motorway-Central University portion to come to a standstill, they have recently resumed.
“We are back on site and we are hopeful that by the end of 2027 those sections should be completed,” he stated.
Concerning the Ashaiman Roundabout-Akosombo Road project, the Minister stated that funding restrictions had slowed development, causing the contractor to work at a slower pace, though they remain on site.
To address this, he indicated that the administration is in talks with the German government and other international development partners to acquire additional funding.
He acknowledged the public’s annoyance at the traffic jams on important routes leaving Accra, but he assured them that steps are being made to quickly address the problems.
“I thank the Minority Leader for raising this issue. Indeed, it is a matter of public interest,” he said in closing.
Source: newsthemegh.com