The Tamale interchange project has started in earnest three months after President Akufo-Addo cut the sod to signal commencement of work on project.
Funded under the $2 billion China Synohydro deal, the construction site is now host to a flurry of engineering activities characterized by drilling works and movement of heavy duty vehicles especially.
The interchange – the first of its kind in the regions in the northern parts of the country – will not only improve trade and regional integration because of the proximity to neighbouring Burkina Faso, but also improve traffic management in Tamale.
As part of the $2 billion project investment, $1.5 billion will be invested in roads; some 441km stretch of road is expected to be constructed as part of the first phase at an estimated cost of $500 million.
According to the Sector Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, who inspected the commencement of the interchange project in Tamale last week, the project is expected to be completed within 24 months. He said he was optimistic that the completion time would be met by the contractor.
Exuding confidence as he spoke, the minister said the contractor is known for dedication, sense of quality and meeting deadlines.
Addressing the concerns of many in the region, especially from the Muslim community about the project affecting the Tamale Central Mosque, Mr Amoako-Atta allayed fears as he gave an assurance that the worship facility would not be affected by the project.
He said all that needs to be done had been done and so there would be strict adherence to the plan as it stands.
He indicated that some parts of the structure close to Zenith Bank in the Central Business District would be slightly affected but this he explained was not going to have negative consequence on the operations of the bank.
The minister said the $2 billion Synohydro project would enhance inter-urban and national traffic flow reducing the cost and risk of doing business, thereby enhancing trade within the Saharan regions.
When he cut the sod to signal commencement of work on the project, President Akufo-Addo charged the contractors to ensure strict adherence to environmental protection practices and to avoid its degradation.
FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale