Infrastructure Success Story: North Tongu Bridges Boost Economic Growth with 5% Transport Cost Reduction
The completion of the Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges in North Tongu district represents a significant milestone in Ghana's infrastructure development, with immediate economic benefits already materializing for local communities.
Mr Guggisberg Fiagbenu, Assembly Member for Adidome Central Electoral Area and Chairman of the Adidome-Juapong Transport Union, has called for swift commissioning of these critical infrastructure projects that promise to transform connectivity and economic opportunities in the Volta Region.
Immediate Economic Impact: Transport Costs Reduced
In a remarkable demonstration of community commitment to economic recovery, the local transport union has implemented a 5% reduction in transport fares effective December 8, 2025. This proactive measure aims to support economic stability and demonstrates how infrastructure development can create immediate benefits for citizens.
"This fare reduction is part of the enclave's contribution to national recovery efforts," Mr Fiagbenu explained, highlighting the collaborative approach between government investment and community action.
Government Responsiveness Drives Development
The bridge reconstruction project exemplifies government attentiveness to community development priorities. Following the collapse of the original Aklakpa bridge, swift advocacy efforts resulted in not only its reconstruction but also the upgrade of the Tsetsekpo bridge to matching standards.
Mr Fiagbenu praised the collective commitment that drove the reconstruction works, noting that despite intermittent construction pauses, both bridges are now complete according to project supervisor Mr Jonas Asamoa Peprah.
Strategic Infrastructure for Economic Growth
The completed bridges are positioned to significantly enhance road safety and mobility in the North Tongu district, creating new opportunities for business development and improved market access. The infrastructure investment aligns with Ghana's broader economic development strategy focused on connectivity and regional integration.
Limited access has already been granted on bridge sections to ease movement, with community support for minor approach road works demonstrating the collaborative spirit driving this success story.
Call for Swift Commissioning
While celebrating the completion, Mr Fiagbenu has urged the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) to expedite the final inspection and commissioning process. His office has formally requested guidance on commissioning timelines to enable effective community planning and ensure orderly infrastructure utilization.
"Prompt commissioning would ease persistent transport challenges and provide long-awaited closure on this transformative project," he emphasized, setting a one-week timeline for official response.
Regional GHA management has confirmed that preparations for commissioning are ongoing, with final access road works awarded to contractors expected to resume shortly.
Model for Community-Government Partnership
The North Tongu bridges project showcases the potential of effective community-government collaboration in driving infrastructure development. The combination of responsive governance, professional project management, and community engagement has delivered tangible results that will benefit the region for decades.
As Ghana continues its infrastructure modernization journey, the Aklakpa and Tsetsekpo bridges stand as testament to what can be achieved when government investment meets community commitment, creating immediate economic benefits and long-term growth opportunities.