By Richard Attenkah
The Tema Metropolitan Assembly has commenced work on the second phase of asphaltic overlay to improve its roads infrastructure. The project, which began from the Community 12 roundabout, will run through the frontage of the Tema General Hospital to connect Road 51 near the St. Paul Methodist Cathedral.
The Metropolitan Chief Executive, Isaac Ashai Odamtten, said, at the commencement ceremony, that the government had released funds for the 23-kilometre asphaltic overlay, which has just started, and that other major roads will be tackled throughout the Tema Metropolis. He said that a lot of money has been spent on the maintenance of roads, saying, “It is better to invest money into the construction of newer roads that will last longer.”
He said the construction process will create some inconvenience for commuters, but urged them to be patient and bear with the Assembly. He said this project will make access to the hospital easier, decrease the rate of maternal mortality, and improve health care. “It will also decrease the traffic situation, since one of the causes of traffic is bad roads.”
He commended the Ghanaian contractors who are in charge of this project, and said the government will continue to use local contractors to improve employment, and said the Assembly and the Government of Ghana is committed to improving infrastructure.
The Site Engineer, Augustine Dadzie, said the first phase of the project is 4.5 kilometres, which stretches from the General Hospital roundabout to the St. Paul junction, Community 2. He said while the asphalt is being laid on the roads, all pot holes and patches will be filled to ensure smooth surfaces.