Roads and Highways Minister, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has ordered the immediate closure of a deteriorating bridge in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region, citing grave safety concerns.

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The Minister explained that the bridge posed a significant risk to commuters and other road users.

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“The current state of this bridge is a serious hazard, and we cannot allow it to remain open when lives are at stake,” he stated.

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The bridge, which spans the Offin River, serves as a critical link for communities such as Kotokuom and surrounding farming areas. However, its worsening condition—marked by fragile metal beams, deep cracks on the surface, and crumbling pillars—has put motorists, particularly farmers transporting produce to urban centres, at serious risk.

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Residents have long appealed for repairs, but their calls went unanswered until images and videos of the crumbling structure circulated on social media, prompting swift intervention.

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The visit, which took place on Monday, 3rd March, formed part of the government’s commitment to improving road networks across the country.

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During his tour, the Minister engaged with local authorities, engineers, and residents to discuss urgent road concerns in the region.

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falling bridge

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Following an assessment with engineers from the Ministry, the Minister confirmed that the bridge had been handed over to contractors, who are set to begin repair work without delay.

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Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Security Council has urged motorists to use alternative routes until the bridge is fully restored.

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