Takoradi: Western Regional Minister, Mr Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, has clarified that the iron rods seen being removed at the Takoradi PTC Interchange are not due to any contractual issues with the Chinese contractors but are part of a construction adjustment to enhance traffic flow in the area. According to Ghana News Agency, the minister explained that the structures being dismantled were temporary scaffolds used during the initial phase of concrete works on the flyover. This removal is to allow the contractor to commence additional construction near the Takoradi Mall and Jubilee Market, aiming to connect with the Kwame Nkrumah Roundabout. This development involves Messrs Kingspok Construction Limited, which previously completed the first tier of the interchange, and is now mobilizing materials to extend the interchange from Axim Road to the Takoradi-Accra stretch. Mr Darko-Mensah highlighted the intended traffic improvements due to this adjustment, noting that drivers heading towards the Takoradi-Accra road from Liberation Road and Axim Road would have direct access without the need to turn right at the Takoradi Mall. This change is anticipated to significantly ease traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Further, the Regional Minister disclosed ongoing discussions with Chinese officials to resume work on the interchange project. He mentioned that the Ghanaian government had completed restructuring a Chinese loan which would enable the continuation and completion of the project. He stated, "I have called the Roads Minister who told me that we have finalized the Chinese loan restructuring, and Ghana would be paying them off to resume completion of the PTC interchange project." The PTC interchange project, initially launched by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in September 2020 with an estimated cost of $2 billion and a completion timeline of 30 months, was primarily handled by Messrs Power China Sino Hydro Corporation Limited. However, the project faced setbacks when the Chinese contractor ex ited the site in January 2023 with about 80% of the work completed. The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr Francis Asenso-Boakye, indicated earlier this year that the government might assign part of the project to another contractor to continue with minimal necessary works.