Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye has announced that the government will establish a mobile application and call center to address the issue of inadequate road maintenance in Ghana.
According to the minister, despite previous governments’ enormous investments in road construction over the years, such efforts have not been matched by commensurate spending in road maintenance, resulting in the rapid deterioration of some sections of the country’s highways.
“It is therefore in response to this challenge that the ministry has adopted a strategy which seeks to prioritize road maintenance in critical areas, including pothole patching on major trunk roads and in urban areas, as well as spot improvements and reshaping of feeder roads,” he announced
“As part of an enhanced road maintenance program designed to address public concerns about road defects swiftly and efficiently through a participatory approach, the Ministry is setting up a maintenance call center, with a Maintenance App,” he stated.
“This creative solution makes use of the digital revolution to improve the effectiveness and responsiveness of the road sector,” he continued.
The minister made this declaration yesterday in Accra during the opening remarks of the Ghana Highway Authority’s (GHA) 50th anniversary celebration, which had as its theme “Development and Maintenance of Quality Highways: Retrospect and Prospects.”
Additionally, Mr. Asenso-Boakye declared that the government has implemented a “new policy to earmark about 60% of our annual maintenance budget to support this initiative” in order to aid in road maintenance efforts.
He stated that these are essential measures in the government’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the nation’s transportation system for the good of all Ghanaians.
Chief of Staff at the Office of the President Frema Osei-Opare said that the legacy of the Authority lies not only in the infrastructure it has constructed but also in the lives it has enhanced.
She praised the GHA’s management and employees for their perseverance in the face of difficulties over the years.
“Let us reiterate our dedication to excellence in the development and upkeep of high-quality highways as we begin the 50th anniversary celebrations,” she said.
Collins Boadu Donkor, Chief Executive of the GHA, pushed for a national conversation about sustainable finance models, arguing that one way to overcome the financial difficulties associated with road upkeep is by bringing back contemporary tolls on roads and bridges.
He emphasized that by taking these steps, they would be better able to regularly maintain and improve the nation’s roadways, making sure they are trustworthy and safe for all users.
“Innovation, safety, and sustainability must continue to be our top priorities going ahead. Modern technology and environmentally friendly methods must be used to make sure that our roads not only serve the requirements of the present but also protect resources for coming generations. Strong investments in our human capital are required to fulfill this goal, he said. We must also offer ongoing training, competitive pay, and cutting-edge tools that will empower our employees.
BY: APPIANIMAA MERCY
