By Samuel Ofori Boateng, GNA
Nkawie (Ash), May 26, GNA – Commercial drivers operating along the Nkawie–Seidi–Kobeng–Amanchia–Mpatuam route in the Ashanti Region have made a passionate appeal to the government to urgently rehabilitate the deteriorating road.
They cited worsening transportation difficulties, rising armed robbery attacks, and growing economic hardship in the affected communities to back their calls for immediate rehabilitation of the stretch.
According to the drivers, the deplorable condition of the road has become a major burden on commuters, traders, farmers, students, and residents who rely on the stretch for their daily activities.
The road, which serves as a key transportation link between communities within the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality and the Amansie West District, has deteriorated over the years due to deep potholes, erosion, and poor drainage systems.
Speaking on behalf of the drivers, some commercial vehicle operators lamented that the road had become almost unbearable, especially during the rainy season when several portions become muddy and difficult to navigate.
They explained that journeys which previously took a short period now consumed several hours because vehicles are forced to move slowly to avoid damage and accidents.
The drivers noted that the poor nature of the road had significantly increased vehicle maintenance costs, as drivers frequently spend huge sums of money on repairs, spare parts, and fuel consumption.
According to them, the situation is affecting their daily income and making transportation services more difficult for both drivers and passengers.
Beyond the transportation challenges, the drivers also expressed serious concern over increasing insecurity along the route, alleging that armed robbers are taking advantage of the bad sections of the road to attack motorists and passengers.
They disclosed that vehicles often become stranded or forced to slow down at damaged portions, creating opportunities for criminal attacks.
“When our vehicles slow down or get stuck on the bad portions of the road, armed robbers take advantage of the situation to attack drivers and passengers,” one of the drivers stated.
The drivers said the continuous attacks had created fear among road users, especially those who travel during the early morning hours or at night.
They are therefore calling on the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, and the respective district assemblies to urgently prioritize the rehabilitation and construction of the road.
According to them, fixing the road will not only improve transportation and reduce travel time but will also help enhance security, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and boost economic activities within the area.
Residents along the route have equally expressed concern about the worsening condition of the road, stressing that it is negatively affecting farming, trading, education, and access to healthcare services.
GNA
Edited by Yussif Ibrahim/Kenneth Odeng Adade