Residents of Achiase and Anumso in the Ashanti Region are appealing for urgent government intervention following the collapse of a key metal bridge linking the two communities.
The damaged bridge, which serves as a vital connection between the Juaben municipality and the Bosome Freho District, has brought transportation and economic activities in the area to a near standstill.
Residents said they had earlier raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of the bridge, warning that its collapse was imminent due to the constant movement of heavy-duty machinery across the structure.
Although illegal mining activities are ongoing in the area, residents clarified that galamsey was not responsible for the collapse, blaming the disaster on the excessive pressure from heavy vehicles using the bridge.
Efforts to create a temporary passage by filling the collapsed section with large quantities of sand have, however, created additional challenges.
The sand has obstructed the natural flow of the Mentu River, causing stagnant water to accumulate and leading to flooding whenever it rains.
The situation has made movement between the two districts extremely difficult, affecting farmers, traders, and residents who depend on the route for their daily activities.
Farmers are struggling to transport their produce to market, resulting in significant post-harvest losses, while traders are unable to move their goods.
The collapse has also created serious health concerns, with residents facing difficulties accessing emergency medical services, particularly for pregnant women requiring urgent care.
Speaking to Elisha Adarkwah, affected residents appealed to the government to urgently reconstruct the bridge and restore normal movement and economic activity in the area.
In response to the concerns, Juaben Municipal Chief Executive Eunice Ohenewaa Ansu visited the site to assess the situation and assured residents that steps would be taken towards rebuilding the bridge.
However, she expressed concern about the continued illegal mining activities in the area, warning that galamsey operations were causing severe damage to farmlands and water bodies within the enclave.
