In what was hailed as a significant development project just a year ago, the 5km road from Mactina through Kokoteasua to Abompekrom has encountered a major setback. A pothole has emerged on the road, causing great concern among community members who fear for their safety and the potential damage to the newly constructed road. Urgent action is needed to address this hazard before it further deteriorates and poses a serious threat to motorists and pedestrians alike.
The road, which was constructed as part of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s ambitious Year of Roads agenda, was expected to bring improved connectivity and economic opportunities to communities such as Estate, Kokoteasua, Abompekrom, and New Nyamebekyere. However, the recent emergence of a sizable pothole after the Kokoteasua Poultry-Abompekrom rail line, near the steadfast school, has cast a shadow over these aspirations.
Local residents have expressed their concerns over the deteriorating condition of the road, fearing for their safety and the potential for accidents.
A concerned citizen, Mrs. Akosua Agyemang, a resident of Abompekrom, highlighted the dangers posed by the pothole. She recounted a recent incident where a young boy was nearly struck by a vehicle swerving to avoid the growing cavity in the road. Mrs. Agyemang emphasized that swift action is necessary to prevent any further accidents or injuries.
Expressing his frustration, Mr. Kwame Osei, a driver who frequently travels the route, stated that the pothole has become a nightmare for motorists. He explained how the hole has gradually expanded due to neglect and the rainy season, now covering almost half of the road. Mr. Osei stressed the urgent need for the relevant authorities to intervene before the situation worsens.
The road, initially projected for completion by the end of 2020, faced delays and was finally finished in 2022. However, the emergence of the pothole just a month ago has raised questions about the quality of the construction and maintenance of the road. Community members have called upon the authorities to take immediate action to repair the pothole before it causes further damage or, worse, a tragic accident.
While the completion of the 5km road was a significant milestone in the development of the area, the emergence of a dangerous pothole threatens to undermine the progress made. It is essential that the relevant authorities heed the concerns of the community members and take immediate action to repair the road. Only by addressing this issue promptly can we ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians, while preserving the long-term benefits that the road was intended to bring to the communities it serves.