Wednesday, 23 July

E/R: Collapsed bridges cripple transport in Ayensuano district

General News
Deplorable roads in Ayensuanono district

Several key bridges in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region have collapsed following years of neglect and the impact of heavy rainfall, cutting off communities and crippling transportation along the vital Aye Kokooso route.

The damage, which residents say began over four years ago, has worsened in recent months, completely isolating multiple towns and villages from essential services including markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

The worst-hit areas are along a major road that serves as the main link between various farming communities and local trading hubs.

Speaking to Accra FM/CTV news reporter Apelete Kofi-Michel, residents expressed deep frustration over the lack of action to address the situation.

“There are about seven bridges that collapsed after the heavy rains years ago.

We are pleading with the government and the Ministry of Roads and Highways to come to our aid.

We are suffering,” one resident said. “This road is critical—80% of people entering nearby communities use it, and it connects at least three major markets.”

Although temporary bypasses have been created, they have proven unreliable, especially as more rain is expected in the coming days.

Motorists and farmers say the alternate routes are narrow and unsafe, making travel increasingly hazardous.

District Chief Executive for Ayensuano, Mr. Joshua Yaw Frederick Lartey, confirmed the extent of the damage in an interview with Accra FM/CTV, stating that the Assembly has dispatched assessment teams to affected areas and is working closely with relevant agencies to develop a comprehensive response plan.

“Our road has not been in good shape for a long time, and now with the bridges collapsing, the situation has become unbearable,” said a distressed motorist.

“Farmers can’t access their lands, and children can’t get to school. We urgently need the government to intervene.”

Hon. Lartey further noted that the road had already posed challenges for commuters prior to the collapse of the bridges, but the current state has made movement nearly impossible.

He appealed passionately to the central government and relevant ministries to prioritise the reconstruction of the damaged infrastructure.

 

 

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah