By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis Xavier Sosu, has renewed calls for the Pantang–Abokobi road to be dualised, following the commencement of rehabilitation works on the strategic corridor.
The 8.6-kilometre road project, which includes internal roads within the Pantang Hospital, stretches from the Pantang Junction traffic lights to the Abokobi Boie Junction and is being undertaken by Awerco Construction.
During an inspection of the site, Mr. Sosu described the road as nationally significant due to the concentration of major health institutions and the rapidly growing population along the stretch.
“Along this stretch, we have the Pantang Hospital, the incoming headquarters of the Ghana Health Service, projects by the Mental Health Authority, and a growing residential population. This has made the road very strategic,” he said.
The MP disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama, through the Minister for Roads, granted clearance for the rehabilitation after persistent concerns were raised about the poor condition of the road.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far, noting that preparatory activities were on course.
“So far, I am satisfied with what I have seen. The drawings are ready, culverts are being diverted and reconstructed, and once that is completed, they will remove the old asphalt and proceed with the asphalt overlay in line with the contract,” Mr. Sosu stated.
Managing Director of Awerco Construction, Joseph Adams, said work began a few days ago with the reconstruction of a major deteriorated culvert. He explained that some existing culverts will be expanded from 600 millimetres to 900 millimetres to improve drainage, while new culverts will be built where necessary.
Mr. Adams acknowledged traffic challenges due to the absence of alternative routes but assured that night works would be prioritised to reduce disruptions. He added that although the contract period is 24 months, the company is working towards completing the project ahead of schedule.
Mr. Sosu appealed to residents and motorists to remain patient and cooperate with contractors, stressing that any temporary inconvenience would be in the long-term interest of the community.
He also appealed to the Roads Minister to visit the site and consider upgrading the project from a single carriageway to a dual carriageway to accommodate increasing traffic volumes.
