Big Push in Peril: Sunyani Outer Ring Road Project Threatened by Reduced Scope of Work

The ambitious Sunyani Outer Ring Road project, a key component of President John Dramani Mahama’s Big Push Agenda, is reportedly under threat following allegations that the Department of Urban Roads has reduced the project’s scope of work.

The 34-kilometer road, contracted to Kofi Job Constructions, was initially planned as a dual carriageway with a central median. However, the project is currently being executed without the median works, raising concerns over both safety and structural integrity.

Investigations by OTEC News reveal that over 20 major sinkholes have emerged along the median, posing a serious risk to commuters and nearby residents. According to sources, the contractor has managed to repair only seven of these at its own expense, while the remaining 13 are left unattended due to financial constraints.

A source from Kofi Job Constructions stated that the company has formally requested the Department of Urban Roads to review and restore the original scope of the project, but these appeals have reportedly gone unanswered.

Road construction expert, Mr. Wilberforce Ntim, has warned that proceeding with a dual carriageway without completing the median could be catastrophic. “The median is not just an aesthetic feature; it is a crucial component for traffic safety, drainage, and road durability. Ignoring it could compromise the entire project,” he explained.

Residents from beneficiary communities such as Fiapre, Abesim, and New Dormaa have expressed deep concern over the development. Many have called on President Mahama and the Minister of Roads, Governors Adgoza, to intervene promptly and ensure that the median works are completed to safeguard road users.

Community members stressed that the success of the Sunyani Outer Ring Road project depends on completing all aspects of construction harmoniously. “We fear accidents and further deterioration of the road if the authorities do not act,” a resident from Abesim said.

The Sunyani Outer Ring Road, once completed, is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve transportation efficiency, and boost socio-economic activities in the Bono Region. However, stakeholders caution that without immediate attention to the median works, the project’s long-term viability may be at risk.