Bridge spanning Volta River faces collapse — MP

Page14. May 4, 2009
Story: Emmanuel Adu-Gyamerah

THE Member of Parliament (MP) for Ketu South, Mr Albert Kwasi Zigah, has drawn the attention of officials of the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) to the imminent collapse of the bridge spanning the Volta River at Sogakope.
He said the warning had become necessary because of the way vehicles were made to wait for a long time before crossing the bridge to the other side during rush hours.
Mr Zigah, who is also a member of the Roads and Transport Committee of Parliament, said even though the bridge was not made to carry many vehicles at a time, vehicles were always seen standing on it while waiting for their turn to cross over.
“I have had cause to warn officials manning the bridge over the issue anytime I get there but this has fallen on deaf ears,” he said.
He said it was unfortunate that officials of the GHA had not detected that anomaly and stated that it would be in the best interest of the nation for immediate action to be taken to curb an imminent danger.
The MP added that it was similar actions by recalcitrant officials and drivers that resulted in the damage of some parts of the Adomi Bridge.
“We cannot sit down unconcerned for such a national asset to deteriorate as a result of the actions and inaction of a few people,” he said.