Roads Ministry begins rehabilitation of the McCarthy-Mallam highway stretch

The Ministry of Roads and Highways has commenced emergency rehabilitation works on the McCarthy-Mallam Junction stretch of the Accra-Cape Coast Highway. The intervention follows weeks of mounting frustration from commuters and motorists over the deteriorating state of this vital corridor. Contractors were observed on-site over the weekend, beginning repairs on deep potholes and damaged sections that have significantly hampered the flow of traffic in the area.

The rehabilitation aims to address severe traffic congestion that has plagued the route, which serves as a primary link between Accra and towns such as Kasoa, Winneba, and Weija-Gbawe. Commuters reported that travel times for short distances, which typically take only a few minutes, had extended to over two hours due to the poor road conditions. The presence of large potholes forced motorists to navigate cautiously, creating bottlenecks and raising serious safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians.

The start of the works follows a formal petition from the Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, who urged the Roads Ministry to take immediate action. Mr. Shaib highlighted the economic and social toll the road's condition was taking on his constituents. He also commended the role of media advocacy, specifically citing reports from Joy FM, Citi FM, and Channel One TV, which amplified the grievances of road users and maintained public pressure on authorities to intervene.

While commuters have expressed relief at the sight of construction equipment, many are calling for a comprehensive solution that includes improved drainage systems to prevent future flooding, which often exacerbates road deterioration. As the rainy season approaches, the Ministry is being urged to expedite the repairs to ensure the McCarthy-Mallam stretch remains motorable and safe, providing the necessary relief for thousands of daily travelers on the Accra-Cape Coast Highway.