Afram Plains Residents in Limbo: Ferry Breakdowns Disrupt Lives, Bridge Construction Stalled
- Residents are deeply concerned about the delays in constructing a new bridge
- The sole ferry linking Kwahu Afram Plains is unreliable
- Lack of reliable transportation significantly impacts the movement of essential goods
Residents of Afram Plains are expressing deep concern over the prolonged delay in constructing a new bridge across the Afram River and the frequent breakdowns of the ferry service between Kwahu Adawso and Ekyeamanfrom.
These issues have severely impacted the transportation of essential goods like farm produce and critical healthcare referrals.
The ferry, operated by the Volta Lake Transport Company, is the primary lifeline connecting Kwahu Afram Plains to Kwahu Adawso. Daily, it facilitates the transport of agricultural produce and is crucial for health referrals.
However, recurrent breakdowns have forced commuters to resort to unreliable alternatives such as canoes, leading to tragic incidents and economic disruptions in the region.
Janet Baah, who tragically lost her mother due to ferry delays, lamented, “Last year, my mother died on the ferry while being referred from Donkorkrom hospital. The delays and breakdowns are unbearable. This issue must be resolved promptly.”
Residents like Attah Jackson echoed these sentiments, expressing fear and uncertainty over the reliability of alternative transportation options. “They must fix this immediately,” Jackson urged.
Despite Parliament’s approval of €350 million for bridge construction and road development in 2022, construction has yet to commence, leaving residents disillusioned with unfulfilled promises. Jordan Michael Yunbow voiced frustration, stating, “If the bridge were built, we wouldn’t face these prolonged delays. It’s time the government delivered on its commitments to develop Afram Plains.”
The Volta Lake Transport Company acknowledged the challenges faced by commuters and motorists and assured ongoing efforts to repair the ferry. Daniel Peprah Adjei, the company’s Public Relations Officer, explained, “We are working diligently to repair the ferry’s propeller and shaft, which are essential for its operation. Parts have been ordered, and we expect repairs to be completed by December.”
Despite assurances, residents remain apprehensive about the ongoing delays and demand urgent action to resolve the transportation crisis plaguing Afram Plains.
