Contractors have resumed work on the stalled Pokuase–Nsawam road project due to increasing public pressure and threats of a nationwide protest from commercial transport operators. For weeks, the deteriorating condition of this vital road, which connects Accra to the Eastern and Ashanti regions, has faced severe criticism from motorists, residents, and transport unions. Recent heavy rains have exacerbated the situation, making the road nearly impassable and disrupting both transportation and economic activities.
On Thursday, August 14, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of the TUC, the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), and other commercial transport operators issued a one-week ultimatum to the Ministry of Roads and Highways. They demanded urgent repairs, threatening to park their vehicles and stage a nationwide protest if their demands were not met.
In their statement, the unions lamented that the poor road condition was escalating operational costs through frequent vehicle repairs, reduced vehicle lifespans, and increased spare part replacements. “This is not just a challenge for commercial transport operators, but for all motorists using this critical corridor to Eastern, Ashanti, and other northern regions. It is disrupting daily life and economic activities,” the statement read.
The operators noted that a previous engagement with the Minister for Roads and Highways ended with a six-week promise to fix the road, but the deadline elapsed without visible progress. JoyNews checks on Monday, August 18, however, confirmed that contractors have now returned to site and resumed work. The move is seen as a direct response to both the unions’ ultimatum and extensive media reports highlighting the deplorable condition of the road. Despite the resumed works, the transport operators insist they will closely monitor progress and remain resolute in their demand for urgent, tangible results.
Source: Albert Kuzor
