The Bono East Regional branch of the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has urgently requested Police protection at the Nyomoase Bridge construction site after discovering that local residents are leading vehicles through dangerous floodwaters for a fee.
The GHA had closed the road at Nyomoase, part of the Kumasi-Yeji highway, following the overtopping of the cofferdam—an essential temporary detour—by the rising river during ongoing construction.
An alternative route was provided for motorists through Bechiase, Adeambra, Adom, and Atebubu to avoid any potential catastrophe.
However, reports indicate that some locals, with support from the Nyomoase Unit Committee, have been illegally assisting vehicles to cross the flooded area by guiding them through the hazardous waters.
The residents are said to be charging fees for this dangerous practice, risking the lives of drivers and passengers alike.
In an effort to prevent vehicles from crossing the flooded cofferdam, the GHA had blocked the road with gravel material.
Despite this, the locals have reportedly removed parts of the blockade, continuing their unauthorized activity.
Concerned about the potential for accidents and further damage to the infrastructure, the GHA has officially requested assistance from the Atebubu Police to enforce the road closure and ensure that drivers use the designated alternate route.
The Highway Authority also plans to replenish the gravel blockade while waiting for the floodwaters to recede, which would allow them to resume work on the new bridge and restore safe passage.
The GHA hopes that with police support, they can prevent further unauthorized crossings and protect both lives and property during this critical construction period.