Residents of Mpatasie lament over abandoned bridge project
Residents of Mpatasie in the Suame municipality in the Ashanti region have expressed deep frustration over an abandoned bridge project initiated by the previous government.
According to the residents, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government began the construction of the roads, and the main bridge connecting Mpatasie to the Atafoa road was left incomplete.
“The road has been nicely constructed, but the lack of a finished bridge has left them in distress,” reported OTEC FM’s reporter, Elizabeth Gyamfuaa Fosu.
One concerned resident shared, “We are living in fear, drivers assume the road is complete and try to use it to get to Atafoa. But when they reach the end and realize there’s a deep pit instead of a bridge, they’re forced to turn around suddenly, and it’s hazardous.”
Another resident, who has lived in the area for years, added that, “Last year, work was progressing with culverts being installed, and we were hopeful. But with the change in government, the contractors abandoned the site.”
“It took the Assembly Member in the area, Hon Alhaji, to construct a footbridge for us,” they added
Condition of PWDs
A disabled couple shared the dangers they face due to the unfinished road construction in their area. They lamented that the high gutters in front of their house have made it extremely difficult and dangerous for them to move in and out of their home.
“We are unable to park our cars inside the house. Unless we leave the car somewhere else and walk home with the help of people in the area,” they said with deep frustration.
During the Rainy Season
The situation worsens during the rainy season, as heavy rains cause severe flooding, making it even harder to cross.
Some also expressed concern about the safety of schoolchildren in the area.
“There are schools nearby, with hundreds of children attending every day. When it rains, the flooded, left bridge becomes a serious danger, especially for the children trying to cross.”
The residents are calling on authorities to urgently revisit the road project, particularly the incomplete bridge and drainage systems, to ensure the safety of all, especially vulnerable groups and schoolchildren.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
