Ketu North: Demolition begins in Dzodze to clear structures for Big Push road dualisation

Dzodze, Volta – A demolition exercise has started in Dzodze in the Ketu North Municipality to remove roadside properties and structures to make way for the dualisation of the Dzodze stretch under Lot 8 of the government’s “Big Push” road project.

The exercise, which began on Thursday, affected several structures located within the right-of-way of the proposed road expansion. These include some churches, parts of fuel stations and sections of public facilities such as the police station.

Before the official demolition, a number of affected property owners carried out self-demolition after receiving compensation.

In January, a town hall meeting and sensitisation programme was organised for residents and persons affected by the project. The engagement was led by Mr Edem Agbana, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, in collaboration with the Ketu North Municipal Assembly, headed by Rev. Martin Amenaki, Municipal Chief Executive.

Officials from the Regional Highways Authority, the Volta Regional Minister, Mr James Gunu, and the project contractors attended the meeting.

At the forum, affected persons were briefed on the scope of the project and assured that compensation would be paid before demolition works began.

Some affected persons who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) said they had received their compensation packages, which informed their decision to begin dismantling their structures ahead of the exercise.

The dualisation of the Dzodze stretch is expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and allow smoother movement of people, goods and transit vehicles along the corridor.

Residents said they expect the project, when completed, to support economic activity in Dzodze and nearby communities and improve connectivity within the municipality and beyond.