Assembly Member Calls for Swift Commissioning of Aklakpa–Tsetsekpo Bridges to Improve Connectivity in North Tongu

Efforts to restore critical transport infrastructure in the North Tongu District of Ghana’s Volta Region have intensified as community leaders renew calls for the immediate commissioning of the Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges. Although reconstruction works on the two bridges have been completed, delays in official inspection and commissioning have raised concerns among residents, commuters, and transport operators who rely heavily on the route for daily economic and social activities.

Leading the call is Mr. Guggisberg Fiagbenu, Assembly Member for the Adidome Central Electoral Area and Chairman of the Adidome–Juapong Transport Union. He has urged the Government of Ghana and the Ghana Highway Authority to expedite the final processes required to officially open the bridges for public use. According to him, the prolonged delay is affecting road safety, increasing travel time, and disrupting commercial activities within the district.

The Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges serve as strategic links along the Adidome–Juapong road, connecting several communities to markets, schools, health facilities, and neighbouring districts. Their temporary closure following structural failures had previously forced motorists to use alternative routes that were longer, unsafe, and costly. Local traders, farmers, and transport operators were among the hardest hit, experiencing reduced income and increased operational expenses.

Mr. Fiagbenu noted that the successful reconstruction of the bridges was the result of sustained advocacy and collaboration between government agencies, contractors, and local stakeholders. While he acknowledged the efforts that went into completing the projects, he stressed that the absence of formal commissioning has limited their full use and benefits. He explained that communities are eager to see the bridges officially handed over to ensure safety assurances and long-term maintenance responsibility.

Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of clear communication regarding the commissioning timeline. According to the Assembly Member, letters have been sent to the Volta Regional Directorate of the Ghana Highway Authority requesting updates, but responses have been slow. He emphasised that transparency and engagement are critical to maintaining public trust and preventing misinformation.

The urgency of the situation is further heightened by the poor state of the alternative routes currently in use. These roads are narrow, poorly maintained, and prone to flooding, particularly during the rainy season. Transport operators have raised safety concerns, noting that vehicle breakdowns and accidents have increased since the bridges became inaccessible.

In a show of solidarity with residents, the local transport union implemented a temporary five percent reduction in transport fares to ease the financial burden on commuters. The Assembly Member described this move as a collective effort to support economic stability while awaiting the full reopening of the bridges. He added that such measures are not sustainable in the long term and should not replace decisive government action.

The delay has also generated tension among sections of the youth, some of whom have questioned why completed infrastructure remains unused. Mr. Fiagbenu appealed for calm and restraint, urging residents to allow due process to take its course. He emphasised that dialogue and cooperation remain the most effective means of resolving the issue.

Regional officials of the Ghana Highway Authority have acknowledged the concerns and appealed for patience, explaining that final inspections and works on approach roads are part of the commissioning process. They indicated that contractors have been engaged to address outstanding issues to ensure the bridges meet required safety standards before official opening.

Despite these assurances, the Assembly Member has called for a clear deadline. He suggested that the bridges should be inspected and commissioned within one week to bring relief to affected communities. While reiterating his preference for dialogue, he noted that residents may consider a peaceful demonstration if delays persist, stressing that any such action would be lawful and focused on drawing attention to legitimate concerns.

The Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges represent more than physical structures; they symbolise access, opportunity, and development for the people of North Tongu. Their full commissioning is expected to enhance mobility, stimulate local trade, and strengthen regional connectivity. Stakeholders believe that timely action will reaffirm government’s commitment to infrastructure development and community welfare.