Residents and commuters in the Central and North Tongu districts have expressed appreciation for the steady progress of reconstruction works on the Aklakpa Bridge at Sayikope, which is now about 80 percent complete.
The bridge, a vital link between several communities, is expected to boost socio-economic activities, ease trade, and facilitate commuting for students and patients needing urgent medical care once completed.
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Mr. Emmanuel Kpodo, a farmer from Mafi Tsetsekpo, said the bridge would ease the transportation of farm produce to markets in Juapong. “For months, we have been carrying our goods through dangerous alternative routes. This bridge will save us time and reduce the cost of transportation,” he told the Ghana News Agency.
Madam Grace Abla, a fishmonger from Awakpedome, noted that delays in reaching neighbouring towns often caused her fish to spoil. “Sometimes my fish goes bad because I arrive late. This bridge will change that,” she said. Mr. Daniel Atsu, a teacher at Titikope, stressed that the project would reduce lateness and absenteeism among pupils who cross the route daily.
Despite the optimism, some residents lamented the prolonged construction period, which has disrupted businesses and daily life. Members of the Adidome–Juapong Transport Union also raised concerns, saying long detours through rough roads have increased costs. “Fuel prices are high, and these detours are making our work unprofitable,” one driver said.
The Aklakpa Bridge collapsed last year when an articulated truck transporting 600 bags of salt plunged into the river after the ageing structure gave way, prompting authorities to shut it down and begin reconstruction.
Residents remain hopeful that the final stages of work will be completed without further delays, restoring the bridge’s role as a crucial economic and social link for the two districts.
