The Ministry of Works and Housing, has signed contracts for the construction of two storm drains at Kaneshie under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID Project).
The two works include the construction of a storm drain from Accra Academy Senior High School to Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange (Lot One) and another one from the Bank of Ghana Quarters through the Takoradi Station to the Odaw River (Lot Two)
Upon signing the contract, the Minister for Works and Housing, Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, said contractors have four weeks to mobilize and begin work, with expected completion times of 12 months for Lot One and 18 months for Lot Two, followed by a 12-month defect liability period.
“We expect you to adhere to the established work program, schedule, quality standards, and presentation requirements set forth by the consultants. Should you encounter any challenges, please communicate them promptly to ensure timely resolution,” he added.
Lot One involves demolishing the existing underground drain and constructing a new double-cell 5.0×2.0m underground box culvert along Dr. Busia Highway, spanning 1,955 meters. This new culvert will connect to a recently constructed drain by GQMI, the contractors working on the Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange.
Lot Two involves demolishing the existing open channel on Osabiede Street and constructing a new single-cell 5.0×2.0m underground box culvert from the Bank of Ghana Quarters to the confluence in the South Kaneshie channel, including work on Osabiede Street, Ayikai Street, and across Ring Road West.
Additionally, the project includes re-sectioning the South Kaneshie channel with a new 15.0×2.6m rectangular open-lined section from Graphic Road to the International Central Gospel Church and expanding the remaining natural stretch to a larger unlined trapezoidal section up to the Odaw confluence. The existing South Kaneshie vehicular bridge on Abossey Okai Street will be replaced with a new 18-meter steel-concrete bridge.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah said, Kaneshie was a densely populated and commercially sensitive area, therefore, any alternative routing and related arrangements must be designed to ensure that commercial activities could continue uninterrupted while work progresses.
“Additionally, the alternative paths should be clearly defined and effectively communicated.
“Given the high population density of the area, safety is a critical concern. We will be closely monitoring and addressing any safety issues to ensure a secure environment for all stakeholders,” he added.
He charged the contractors to ensure that adequate signage was installed in all relevant areas to prevent injuries to workers, pedestrians, and market vendors, adding that fortunately, funding was not an issue, hence the need to proceed with the work promptly.