By: Apiah-Kubi | ignewss —Nkoranza, Ghana
Residents and motorists in the Nkoranza North Constituency of the Bono East Region are expressing renewed optimism as contractors have commenced primer sealing and bituminous surfacing works on the long-troubled Yefri–Tano Boase road.
The development follows years of complaints over the deteriorating condition of roads in the area, characterised by deep potholes, loose gravel, excessive dust and difficult driving conditions.
The latest works form part of the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme and cover sections from Yefri to Tano Boase, as well as the Bono Manso–Sikaa–Pinihi stretch.
The Member of Parliament for Nkoranza North, Hon. Joseph Kwasi Mensah, who inspected the ongoing works, described the development as a major step towards resolving longstanding transportation challenges in the constituency.
He explained that the application of primer seal was an important preparatory stage ahead of the laying of the first and second coats of bituminous surfacing.
“The process is expected to improve road durability while preparing the surface for final finishing works, and I believe they will finish soon,” he said.
For years, the condition of the road network has been a major concern for commuters, commercial drivers, traders and businesses operating within the constituency.
The combination of potholes, loose stones and dust has made transportation difficult, with motorists frequently forced to reduce their speed to navigate dangerous sections of the road.
Farmers have also faced difficulties transporting agricultural produce from communities including Busunya, Boabeng, Fiema, Yefri and Kranka to major market centres.
Residents say the poor road conditions have increased travel times, vehicle maintenance costs and transportation expenses while affecting the movement of goods and services.
Hon. Mensah said the commencement of the surfacing works marked the beginning of the end of the prolonged difficulties experienced by road users.
“The worsening condition of the road has eventually come to an end,” he said.
The MP also attributed the road intervention to the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, saying the party had consistently prioritised road development in Nkoranza North.
As heavy machinery continues to operate on the affected sections, residents have welcomed the visible progress but have also called for strict supervision to ensure that the road meets the required standards.
Hon. Mensah urged the contractor to prioritise quality and durability, given the volume of traffic expected to use the road once completed.
He further assured residents that efforts would continue to address other deteriorated roads within the constituency to improve connectivity and support economic activity.
The improved road network is expected to facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, reduce transportation costs and improve access between communities.
Residents who interacted with the MP expressed relief at the commencement of the surfacing works, saying the development could significantly improve road safety and stimulate commercial activity in the area.
One resident welcomed the reduction in dust expected from the surfacing works but cautioned that the quality of construction should remain a priority.
“As much as we are happy that the primer seal is finally being applied and the dust situation will reduce, we are equally concerned about the quality of the work being done,” the resident said.
For communities along the Yefri–Tano Boase corridor, the ongoing application of primer seal and bitumen represents a significant shift after years of frustration and repeated appeals for the rehabilitation of the road.
Residents now hope the works will be completed on schedule and to the required engineering standards, bringing lasting relief to motorists, farmers, traders and businesses that depend on the road.
Source: www.ignewss.com