Construction resumes on stalled Pokuase–Nsawam road after threats to demonstrate

Contractors have resumed work on the stalled Pokuase–Nsawam road project following mounting public pressure and threats of a nationwide protest by commercial transport operators.

For weeks, the deplorable state of the road, one of the busiest corridors linking Accra to the Eastern and Ashanti regions, has drawn sharp criticism from motorists, residents, and transport unions.

Heavy rains in recent weeks further worsened the situation, leaving the stretch almost impassable and disrupting both transportation and economic activities.

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of TUC, the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), and other commercial transport operators had on Thursday, August 14, issued a one-week ultimatum to the Ministry of Roads and Highways. They demanded urgent repairs or threatened to park their vehicles and stage a nationwide protest.

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.

MyJoyOnline