Tension escalated at Suame Magazine in the Ashanti Region as hundreds of artisans and spare parts dealers took to the streets to protest what they describe as the “total neglect” of the Suame Interchange and Suame–Offinso road project by the contractor, Rengo Construction Limite
The demonstrators, visibly angry and carrying placards, blocked the Maakro road and set lorry tyres ablaze, causing significant traffic disruption. According to the artisans, Rengo Construction vacated the site weeks ago without notice, leaving behind deep pits, dust pollution, and an exposed road surface that endangers both traders and motorists.
Residents and shop owners say the heavy dust resulting from the abandoned road works has become unbearable, affecting businesses and posing health risks.
“We are suffering. The dust is too much. Our shops are covered every day, and customers can’t come here. If they won’t work, they should tell us,” one frustrated artisan said.
Others claimed their appeals to authorities, including the Suame Municipal Assembly, have gone unanswered, forcing them to resort to protest.
BACKGROUND ON THE PROJECT
The Suame Interchange project was announced in 2022 as a major government intervention to address chronic traffic congestion and deteriorating road infrastructure within Suame, a key industrial hub and home to the largest automotive spare parts market in West Africa.
The project which includes a four-tier interchange, road rehabilitation from Suame to Offinso, and drainage improvements was expected to be executed in phases.
Rengo Construction Limited was assigned sections of the work, while other components were to be handled by multiple contractors under the Ministry of Roads and Highways.
Although initial works commenced in 2023, including earthworks and utility relocation, the project has since faced delays.
Local authorities attributed some setbacks to funding challenges and coordination issues among contractors, but residents say communication from the government has been minimal.
Today’s protest is not the first. In previous years, artisans at Suame Magazine demonstrated over poor road conditions, prompting government pledges and eventual commencement of the interchange project.
Watch the protest videos…
Source: www.kumasimail.com
