Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Highways Authority, Cecil Obodai Wentum, has expressed commitment of the Authority to resolve issues and concerns associated with the Sogakope bridge in the Volta Region.

Mr Wentum revealed that checks from the road safety division indicated that a team of engineers has assessed the bridge and triggered the process to addressing the challenges.

“I can’t authoritatively say that contracts have been awarded but the situation has been assessed and once the engineers have assessed the situation, they will go with a technical team and amongst the technical team, probably are one or two people who can also provide additional inputs. They can be contractors [and] consultants all put together, so that has been done. I can assure you that in no time the processes will start.”
Cecil Obodai Wentum

The Highways PRO noted that the processes are not instant and immediate as it will have to go through a procurement process and once the process is triggered, there are channels the Authority will have to go through as well. He highlighted that in situations where it becomes an emergency, something instant will be done to resolve the problem.

“As far as the bridge is concerned, I have not heard from any of our engineers telling me that it is in a dangerous situation as sometimes people will put it. You remember not too long ago, a similar publication was put out there, especially on social media about the Adomi bridge and so much noise was made. I can tell you for a fact, when you speak to our engineers, they will tell you that the bridge [and] the vibrations that people talk about is within the acceptable limit…”
Cecil Obodai Wentum

Addressing concerns on Sogakope bridge

Mr Wentum stated that he has spoken to the bridge engineers who have been there, done their assessments and pointed out that there are also issues with expansion joints of the bridge. He acknowledged that although they need to be replaced, it all boils down to funding and “it does not raise so much concern regarding emergency”.

“I agree with you, it’s a matter of public safety [and] it’s a matter of concern for us as well.”
Cecil Obodai Wentum

Commenting on whether the bridge needs to be shut down and renovated, Mr Wentum disclosed that he cannot speak “authoritatively” on the matter because conversation hasn’t gotten to a point that will lead to the shutting down of the bridge.

“… Don’t forget that it’s a major connector and it’s a major highway, so shutting it down obviously will mean we are bringing a lot of distress to commuters [and] we will bring a lot of problems to those who ply that stretch of road. As it stands, it is not a serious, it’s not a serious situation as people are putting it out there…”
Cecil Obodai Wentum

Elaborating on what road tolls generated from the drivers who ply the bridge were used for, Mr Wentum disclosed that the monies did not come directly to the Authority as it was given back to government. He revealed that his outfit will have to apply for funds if it needs start any works on bridges in the country.