Akroso: Nana Odam-Gyamfi, the President of Akroso Traditional Council, has sounded the alarm on the precarious state of the Asukawkaw Bridge, calling on the government to urgently replace the steel plates that have become a major accident hotspot. He said the current condition of the bridge poses a significant risk to motorists and pedestrians, and immediate action is needed to prevent further accidents.

According to Ghana News Agency, the President of the Traditional Council’s plea comes in the wake of several incidents on the bridge, which have resulted in injuries and fatalities. The steel plates on the bridge have been identified as a major contributor to the accidents, with drivers struggling to maintain traction, especially during the rainy season. Nana Odam-Gyamfi noted that the bridge was constructed by the late president, Jerry John Rawlings, in 1970, and has not received any maintenance since, making it a potential death trap for motorists, commuters, and pedestrians.

Mr. Mark Oduro, the Assembly Member of the area, called for immediate attention to address the bridge’s deteriorating condition. He emphasized the need for urgent repairs to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of commuters. The Assembly Man and Akroso Traditional Councils are urging the government to take swift action to replace the steel plates and ensure the safety of individuals who use the route on a daily basis.

The member of parliament (MP) for Krachi East constituency, Mr. Nelson Kofi Djabab, called on the Road and Highway Authorities to urgently attend to the poor state of the bridge. He highlighted that the bridge links the northern and southern parts of the country and has been identified as a major accident hotspot due to its smooth surface. The MP told GNA during a visit to the bridge that many accidents have been recorded, particularly involving heavy trucks that lose control while attempting to brake after coming down from the mountain at high speeds. He lamented the loss of lives resulting from these accidents and urged the authorities to take immediate action to repair the bridge.