Member of Parliament (MP) for Okaikwei North Constituency, Theresa Lardi Awuni has secured government approval for the expansion and reconstruction of the Kissiman Bridge, 30 years after the project was abandoned.
The Ministry of Works and Housing and the Urban Roads Authority awarded the contract following sustained lobbying by the MP, who has pushed for urgent intervention on the bridge due to perennial flooding and safety concerns.
Speaking during a site visit with engineers, contractors, and the Works and Housing Minister at Kissiman in Accra today, Ms. Awuni thanked President John Dramani Mahama and the government for responding swiftly to the plight of residents.
She urged constituents and residents to cooperate with the contractors to ensure smooth and timely execution of the project.
Minister for Works and Housing, Mr. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, said the reconstruction is aimed at addressing the destruction and danger the bridge poses during heavy downpours. He noted the bridge serves thousands in Okaikwei North, Dome-Kwabenya, and Ayawaso West Wuogon and therefore requires urgent and climate-resilient expansion.
Mr. Adjei disclosed that the government has made budgetary allocation for the project, including compensation for legally affected persons and properties. He advised the engineers and contractors to prioritize professionalism, affordability, and durability in delivering the project.
Some residents who spoke during the visit shared their concerns and expectations for the newly reconstructed and expanded Kissiman Bridge.
The Kissiman Bridge links several densely populated communities in Accra and has been cited over the years as one of the major flood-prone spots in the capital.
