Roads Minister hints at reintroducing road tolls in “digitised” form



The Ministry of Roads and Highways, under the leadership of Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye, has initiated discussions with stakeholders regarding the potential reinstatement of road toll collection in the country. This announcement was made during the Minister's inspection of the deteriorated sections of the Accra-Kumasi Highway in the Ashanti Region.


Mr. Asenso-Boakye emphasized that if road tolls were to be reintroduced, they would undergo a digitized and automated process. He highlighted the importance of generating revenue to maintain the country's existing road infrastructure, stating that many countries utilize toll revenue for road maintenance.


During his visit to the Asante Akim South Municipality, the Minister underscored the need to depoliticize the issue and urged political leaders to view it as a national development imperative. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to rehabilitating the nation's road networks and emphasized the significance of good road maintenance practices in ensuring road safety.


Prior to his inspection in the Ashanti Region, Mr. Asenso-Boakye also assessed the progress of the Ofankor-Nsawam dual carriageway road project. This project, funded jointly by the Government of Ghana and Afriexim Bank, is being executed by Maripoma Enterprise Limited and is scheduled for completion later this year.


The road network, once completed, will feature three lanes, service roads, an interchange, two overpasses, and an underpass. Mr. Kwabena Bempong, Chief Resident Engineer, provided an update on the project, indicating significant progress in concrete work and the construction of footbridges.


Furthermore, he highlighted that overpasses and an underpass are currently under construction at strategic locations along the route. The Minister's proactive engagement and oversight of these critical infrastructure projects demonstrate a concerted effort towards enhancing the country's transportation network.


As discussions regarding the potential reinstatement of road tolls progress, it is evident that the Ministry of Roads and Highways is dedicated to addressing the infrastructure needs of the nation and ensuring sustainable funding mechanisms for road maintenance.



source  GNA | curated by Tetteh Belinda | Mydailyreports24

Post a Comment

0 Comments