Builsa North to South road project not abandoned – James Agalga
The MP says the road contract is still active and under revision due to cost adjustments, assuring that the entire stretch remains part of the project and will eventually be completed under the “Big Push” programme.
The Member of Parliament for Builsa North, James Agalga, has dismissed claims that the long-stalled road project linking Builsa North and South has been abandoned, clarifying that the contract remains active and is currently undergoing necessary revisions.
Addressing concerns from sections of the public during a sod-cutting ceremony in Sandema on Friday, the MP explained that the road contract, which stretches from Chuchuliga through Farinsa and Gbedema to Wiesi, was originally awarded in 2016. Initial construction works began but stalled around early 2017, leaving the project inactive for nearly eight years.
Agalga noted that due to the prolonged delay, it has become necessary for the Ministry of Roads to review the contract sum to reflect current market realities.
He emphasized that the cost of construction materials such as cement and iron rods has significantly increased over the years, making the original figures outdated.
“After nearly a decade, you cannot rely oJames Agalga – MP for Builsa Northn the same contract figures. Naturally, there must be adjustments to accommodate current prices.” He stated.
According to him, the first phase of the project, covering a 16-kilometer stretch from Chuchuliga to Farinsa, has already undergone revision. He clarified that this does not mean the remaining portions of the road have been cancelled.
“There has been no termination of the contract. The entire stretch remains intact. What is ongoing is a revision of the figures for the remaining sections.” He stressed.
The MP further revealed that sections linking Farinsa to Gbedema and from Gbedema to Wiesi are currently being reviewed. Once the process is completed, new contract sums will be publicly displayed on signboards for transparency.
Agalga also debunked claims that only a portion of the road has been captured under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure initiative. He explained that the full 40-kilometer stretch is included in the program.
“It is not just 16 kilometers. The entire stretch from Chuchuliga to Wiesi is part of the Big Push. Works will be executed.” He assured.
He attributed part of the delay to outstanding Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), which have remained unpaid for several years. This, he said, further necessitates the revision process to ensure contractors are adequately compensated under current economic conditions.
Despite the setbacks, the MP expressed optimism that construction will resume once the financial and administrative processes are completed. He also indicated that arrangements are underway for some payments to be made to facilitate the continuation of work.
Agalga reiterated that the project is not at the sod-cutting stage, noting that the initial ceremony was performed in June 2016 by former President John Dramani Mahama.
“We are not cutting sod again. The next time we gather for this project, it will be for commissioning, not another groundbreaking,” he concluded.
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