The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, has paid a working visit to personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) who are currently clearing land for the construction of the new Accra-Kumasi Expressway.
The soldiers from the Engineers unit are operating from their campsite at Asuboa, near Akyem Oda in the Eastern Region.
They are clearing green fields within the designated corridors of the expressway.
The Chief of Defence Staff’s visit was to evaluate operational progress and ensure that activities align with established timelines.
Briefing the CDS, the Project Engineer, Major Evans Biney, noted that their mission is to clear the right-of-way within the designated 175.6-kilometer corridor.
He added that this clearing, along with other ancillary works, constitutes a critical phase of the project aimed at improving the project’s feasibility and supporting initial and detailed engineering design studies.
Major Biney further explained that four work gangs are expected to undertake the task along the entire length of the corridor, working day and night.
As of the time of visit of the CDS, it was explained that 17.75km had been cleared during the mobilization phase.
Major Biney told the CDS that with funding secured and most equipment on-site, clearing would be completed within the 20-week timeline,
Major Biney pointed out that heavy rains, dense vegetation, limited night visibility, and the lengthy compensation valuation process are key challenges that could slow progress.
Despite these anticipated hurdles, he remained optimistic about meeting the deadline. Project Coordinator Major Edem Anku noted that all administrative and logistical requirements are in place for the project’s smooth delivery, adding that troops are well-poised for the task.
Project Coordinator Maj Edem Anku noted that all administrative and logistical requirements are in place for the project’s smooth delivery, adding that troops are well-poised for the task. He stated that the project team has maintained constructive dialogue with traditional authorities in Asuboa and surrounding areas, fostering a cordial working relationship.
Additionally, he disclosed that, as part of civil-military cooperation, local arrangements are underway to engage youth in the catchment area for minor site roles and administrative support as needed.
The CDS toured two sites to assess progress and engage with troops on the ground. He commended personnel for their dedication, urging them to sustain momentum to ensure timely completion. He reiterated the project’s strategic importance, noting that history will remember the gallant role GAF played in supporting this critical national development.
He also interacted with residents affected by the project, assuring them of the government’s commitment to fair compensation. The CDS was accompanied by staff officers from General Headquarters and the Commanding Officer of the Jungle Warfare School, Achiase, Lieutenant Colonel Speratus Anglaamwine Baninyeni.
The Accra-Kumasi Expressway is designed to connect the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Ashanti Regions through key communities including Ablekuma, Adiembra, Adeiso, Asamankese, Anamase, Akim Oda, Ayirebi, Ofoase, Enikawkaw, Gyadamua, Asante Achiase, Kwaso, and Sawua.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh