The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) has announced the immediate closure of the Prang-Atebubu stretch of the Atebubu-Kumasi Highway in the Bono East Region due to severe flooding caused by the overflowing White Volta River.
The flooding has submerged the Nyomoase Bridge, rendering the highway impassable and cutting off several communities along the stretch. While no casualties have been reported, the disruption has significantly impacted the movement of residents and economic activities in the affected areas.
According to Mr. Emmanuel Okanklu, Bono East Regional Director of the GHA, the authority has taken proactive measures to divert traffic and facilitate vehicular movement. “The river has submerged the Nyomoase bridge and portions of the road, making it difficult for vehicles to pass,” he explained.
Visibility on the road has also been severely impaired, posing a significant risk to drivers and motorists. To address this, the GHA has constructed a cofferdam to contain the water and create a temporary passage for commuters.
Mr. Okanklu assured that the GHA is on standby, ready to repair the road as soon as the water levels recede. He urged affected communities, drivers, and passengers to remain calm and cooperative during this period.
Bono East Regional Minister, Mr. Kwasi Adu-Gyan, has visited the scene to assess the situation and offer reassurance to the affected communities. He emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining the Atebubu-Kumasi highway, a critical asset for the region.
Mr. Adu-Gyan advised drivers to exercise caution and announced plans to deploy security operatives to enhance safety along the highway.
The closure of the highway has significant implications for trade and commerce in the region. Local traders and businesses rely heavily on the highway for transportation of goods and services.
The GHA and regional authorities are working diligently to restore access and minimize disruptions. Residents and travelers are advised to follow official updates and use alternative routes where possible.
In the meantime, the affected communities are urged to remain patient and cooperative as efforts are made to rectify the situation and restore normalcy to the Atebubu-Kumasi highway.
