KWASO, Ghana, 14th September: The proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway will feature eight interchanges, four rest stops, two toll interchanges and CCTV surveillance as part of measures to improve safety and convenience for motorists.
President John Dramani Mahama disclosed the details at Kwaso in the Ashanti Region during a ceremony marking the completion of the Ghana Armed Forces’ 175.6-kilometre right-of-way clearance for the project.
According to the President, the 198.7-kilometre expressway will be designed to provide motorists with a faster and safer alternative to the existing Accra-Kumasi highway.
He said the eight interchanges would allow motorists travelling to communities along the corridor to exit the expressway without having to enter the main cities.
“If you are going off to Asamankese, you go off-ramp, you go under the road, and there will be a road taking you to Asamankese. It will be the same for Ofoase and all the other interchange points,” President Mahama explained.
The project will also have two toll interchanges, one located at the Ashanti end and the other at the Greater Accra end.
President Mahama said four rest stops would be provided along the route for motorists who need to take breaks during long journeys.
He said the facilities would allow travellers to refuel, eat, rest and shop before continuing their journeys.
The expressway will also include emergency arrangements to reduce the risks associated with vehicles breaking down on the road.
President Mahama said tow trucks would be available to quickly remove disabled vehicles from the road to prevent them from causing accidents or obstructing traffic.
CCTV cameras will also be installed along the expressway.
According to the President, the cameras will assist authorities in monitoring motorists and identifying drivers who engage in reckless or dangerous driving.
The expressway is expected to be a six-lane highway with a recommended speed of 120 kilometres per hour.
The Ghana Armed Forces have completed the clearance of 175.6 kilometres of the right-of-way, with the task completed one week ahead of the 20-week deadline given to them.
Government is now moving towards the selection of a contractor, with an expression of interest already advertised for companies seeking to participate in the construction of the project.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites✍️)/ Presidential Affairs Correspondent | Ghana 🇬🇭
