Ofankor-Nsawam Road Construction Faces Delays Amid Legal and Logistical Challenges

The Ofankor-Nsawam dual carriageway road project in Ghana, a critical infrastructure initiative, has been delayed significantly as a result of numerous legal and logistical challenges. Initially scheduled for completion by July 2024, the project now faces an uncertain timeline.

Why this matters: The Ofankor-Nsawam road construction project is a critical infrastructure initiative that affects the daily lives of thousands of commuters in Ghana. Delays in the project's completion can lead to prolonged traffic congestion, economic losses, and decreased quality of life for residents.

The 33.4-kilometer project, which began on September 2, 2022, is currently 58.3% complete. Key sections, including railway bridges, storm drains, and footbridges, have been finished. However, over 100 lawsuits concerning properties, compensations, and the relocation of utility lines have stalled further progress.

Resident Engineer Thomas David Arthur and Senior Project Manager Abdulai Mahama have highlighted that the contractor, Maripoma Enterprise Limited (MEL), does not have full possession of the land, impeding the project's advancement. The relocation of utilities such as electricity and water is 75% complete, but this too has faced delays.

The project's impact on daily commuters has been significant. The road's poor condition, marked by large potholes and ongoing construction, has led to daily traffic jams and frequent visits to mechanic shops for repairs. Kojo Asante, a driver, expressed his frustration, saying, "As drivers, we often visit the mechanic shops for repairs due to the nature of the road."

Efforts to mitigate the road's condition include regular maintenance, such as putting fine soil material and gravel on the road to aid commuters. However, heavy rains have washed away these materials, necessitating continuous efforts to seal potholes and reduce debris by sprinkling water from tankers.

The project, valued at $346.5 million, is jointly funded by the Government of Ghana and MEL. Upon completion, it is expected to ease traffic on the Accra-Nsawam route and promote socio-economic activities along the stretch and beyond. However, the current delays have left commuters and drivers appealing for expedited work to alleviate the daily inconveniences they face.

The Ofankor-Nsawam road construction project remains a vital development for Ghana's infrastructure. The resolution of legal disputes and logistical challenges will be key to resuming and completing the project, which will benefit the thousands of commuters who rely on this route daily.

Key Takeaways

• Ofankor-Nsawam road project in Ghana delayed due to legal and logistical challenges.
• Project initially scheduled for completion by July 2024, now faces uncertain timeline.
• Over 100 lawsuits and utility relocation issues hinder project progress.
• Delays cause daily traffic congestion, economic losses, and decreased quality of life.
• Project valued at $346.5 million, expected to ease traffic and promote socio-economic activities.