Tarkwa: The Gabriel Couto-Rango Consortium, the contractor responsible for the 67-kilometre Agona Nkwanta to Tarkwa road, has announced plans to commence a six-month repair project on the deteriorating road.
According to Ghana News Agency, the road, which was commissioned in 2024, has sparked public outcry over its rapid deterioration, raising concerns about its durability. Mr. Theodore Adimazoya, CEO of Gabriel Couto-Rango Consortium, stated that rehabilitation works would soon begin to improve traffic flow and ensure public safety.
During an axle control forum in Tarkwa, Mr. Adimazoya attributed the deterioration to excessive overloading by heavy-duty trucks transporting manganese and bauxite, rather than issues with construction. He warned that motorists and commuters should expect significant traffic congestion during the repair period and urged road users to reduce their speed to allow the working team sufficient time to address the issues.
The Consortium plans to collaborate with the Motor Transport and Traffic Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service and other stakeholders within the next month to introduce traffic management measures, aiming to ensure the safety of road users.
Mr. Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, noted that roads designed to last 10 to 15 years are failing within five years due to persistent overloading. A technical assessment revealed that the Agona Nkwanta to Tarkwa road has been subjected to more than three times its designed load, causing structural failure, cracking, and pavement deformation. He commended the contractor for undertaking the rehabilitation and repair works at their own expense.