The construction of the Tamale Ring Road project has recorded significant progress across its three lots, with the government expressing confidence that the project could be completed by the end of 2027 or earlier.
The progress was disclosed during an inspection tour led by the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, who visited Lot One, being undertaken by China Railway No. 5, and Lot Three, under construction by Munisco Limited.
Briefing the Minister, the Regional Director said work on Lot One had advanced from the cement-stabilised base stage during the previous inspection in September to the commencement of asphalt base works. He said the progress made so far had placed the contractor on course to meet the project deadline.
On Lot Two, the Regional Director reported progress in drainage and culvert construction, explaining that the number of completed culverts had increased from two to seven out of the 11 required. Drainage works on that section had also expanded from four kilometres to eight kilometres, while some earthworks had commenced.
For Lot Three, the contractor had moved from the gravel sub-base stage to laying the cement-stabilised base. Drainage works were also ongoing, with approximately four kilometres remaining to complete the drainage component.
The Regional Director said contractors had been asked to revise their work programmes to take advantage of the dry season and accelerate construction before the rains return. He, however, identified dust pollution as a challenge during the dry season, explaining that although contractors were watering the roads regularly, the sections dried out quickly due to the prevailing weather conditions. He appealed to residents along the project corridor to bear with the construction teams as efforts continued to minimise the dust.
Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, commended the Minister and the contractors for the progress made, saying the development demonstrated what could be achieved through effective leadership and commitment. He expressed confidence that the project would deliver a third ring road for the Greater Tamale Metropolis by the end of 2027, if not earlier.
According to him, the completed infrastructure would significantly improve movement and transportation while boosting commerce and economic activity across the Northern Region. Mr Suhuyini also attributed the government’s ability to maintain payments to contractors to improvements in the country’s economic conditions, including lower inflation and a more stable exchange rate.
The Tamale Ring Road project forms part of the government’s Big Push infrastructure programme.
Story by : Belinda Anim-Piesie
