A massive rehabilitation work has commenced on the Apedwa-Ejisu stretch of the Accra-Kumasi Highway to restore the pavement’s riding quality and improve safety and traffic flow.
The 160km Apedwa-Ejisu section is a critical highway connecting Accra to Kumasi and passes through key economic towns such as Bunso Junction, Anyinam, Konongo, and Ejisu.
The Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, inspected the works Wednesday and emphasised the corridor’s vital role in linking the country’s two largest economic cities.
“Over the years, this important road has experienced extensive deterioration, with defects such as potholes, cracks, rutting, and depressions affecting large sections of the carriageway. Despite various interventions to maintain these sections, the road has continued to deteriorate significantly, necessitating a more comprehensive solution,” the Minister said.
He indicated that given its strategic importance, the government has taken a bold decision to rehabilitate the corridor.
Mr. Asenso-Boakye explained that the 160km stretch has been divided into two lots; Lot 1 from Ejisu to Nkawkaw (90km) and Lot 2 from Nkawkaw to Apedwa (70km).
He further indicated that the scope of work for the project, includes pavement strengthening, asphalt overlays, and the installation of road furniture.
“The Rehabilitation work is scheduled to be completed in 24 months and upon completion, it will significantly enhance travel safety, reduce journey times, and boost economic activities between Accra and Kumasi,” the minister said.
Mr. Asenso-Bokye also indicated that the government is currently constructing four major bypasses along the Accra-Kumasi highway at Osino, Enyiresi, Anyiman and Konogo to “help reduce travelling time, accidents and promote economic activities along the major towns on the corridor.”
The Minister directed the contractors to put in place a robust traffic management plan to reduce inconvenience to commuters.
He further appealed to motorists applying the stretch to drive safely and adhere to traffic control measures that have been put in place by the contractors.