Completion of Ofankor-Nsawam Highway Faces Delay; Contractor to Provide Updated Timeline

The chief resident engineer overseeing the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, Ing. Kwabena Bempong, has revealed that the anticipated completion date of July 2024 for the construction works will be postponed and extended.

Ing. Bempong explained that the extensive remaining work makes meeting the initial July deadline unfeasible. Speaking to Bernard Avle, host of the Citi Breakfast Show on Citi FM, he mentioned that while the original deadline cannot be met, the project’s contractor has yet to submit a revised timeline.

“We have requested the contractor to provide us with a revised schedule. For a project of this scale, an extension of time must be approved by the Ministry of Roads and Highways before any further updates can be confirmed.

“As far as our records indicate, the completion target remains July, but we recognize the impracticality of meeting that deadline. The contractor must furnish us with compelling justifications for the inability to finish the project as originally scheduled.”

Ing. Bempong attributed the delay to the relocation of utility lines and compensating individuals affected by the project.

“Relocating utility lines and constructing longitudinal drains are significant factors contributing to the project’s delay. We are currently relocating electricity, water, and communication lines.

“Another challenge involves relocating residents affected by the project. Some individuals have sought injunctions against the project, leading to ongoing litigation. Despite being two years into the project, certain utility lines still occupy road space.”