The Chief of the Gambibgo Traditional Area in the Bolgatanga East District of the Upper East Region, Naba Sadik Ayine Inusah, has renewed calls on the government and the Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to urgently complete the abandoned Gambibgo–Tindonsobligo bridge to prevent further loss of lives and livelihoods.
According to the chief, the river has become a death trap, claiming at least three human lives every year as residents attempt to cross to their farmlands and visit relatives. Countless livestock have also been swept away over the years. Barely a month ago, a man believed to be in his late 30s drowned while attempting to cross the river.
The bridge project was awarded in 2017 to Hatoum Construction Limited to provide a safer crossing and serve as a bypass for heavy-duty vehicles travelling to Bawku and neighbouring Burkina Faso and Togo.
Although construction commenced between 2019 and 2022, work was abandoned due to funding challenges, leaving behind deteriorating cement, iron rods, and other construction materials.
During a recent inspection of the abandoned project site, Naba Sadik Ayine Inusah described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that residents have repeatedly appealed for the bridge’s completion but have received little response.
Women, youth, and children who accompanied the chief echoed the call, saying they live in constant fear whenever the river overflows during the rainy season.
They noted that the incomplete bridge continues to isolate communities, disrupt economic activities, and expose farmers, traders, and schoolchildren to serious danger.
Residents further emphasised that completing the bridge would not only save lives but also improve trade, create employment opportunities, facilitate transportation, and stimulate economic development in the Bolgatanga East District and surrounding communities.
They appealed to the government to prioritise funding for the project before more lives are lost.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
