The construction of a major underground storm drain at Hansonic Junction to address perennial flooding and poor drainage along the Hansonic-Darkuman Junction stretch of the Dr Busia Highway has commenced. This project follows persistent complaints from commuters, residents, and business owners over flooding and the poor drainage system in the area, particularly during the rainy season. The Municipal Chief Executive for Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly, Adamu Musah Kalam, stated that the problem had persisted for between 10 and 15 years, and added that the new drain would provide a permanent solution to the flooding. The MCE said the project involved the construction of a larger, 5.2-metre drain beneath the access road. He said the project was expected to be completed within four months. Mr Kalam acknowledged support from several key stakeholders, including Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, Ewurabena Aubynn; the former Minister of Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, and the Senior Presidential Advisor for Governmental Affairs, Dr Valerie Sawyerr. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation from residents and business owners, explaining that the project would temporarily affect some businesses and movement along the road. Mr Kwaku Tsegah, the Maintenance Engineer at the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly, explained that the existing underground drainage system had become inadequate due to siltation and the dumping of refuse. He said the system, constructed around 1985, had a major inlet at Tecno that collected water from the Wesley Grammar School area through the Hansonic Hotel and market area. Mr Tsegah further stated that the drain had been cleared several times but had reached a stage where further maintenance could no longer adequately address the problem. He said the new intervention would involve the construction of an underground storm drain measuring about two metres high and five metres wide. The new drain would carry storm water from the Wesley Grammar area towards First Light and would link up with a storm drainage project being undertaken by the Hydro section of the Ministry of Works and Housing under the Greater Accra Resilient Integrated Development (GARID) project. Mr Tsegah said construction would require careful coordination with agencies because electricity cables and a major Ghana Water Company Limited pipeline were located within the project area. He said the Hansonic Junction would eventually have to be blocked temporarily during the works and alternative routes would be provided to facilitate movement. The project is expected to significantly improve drainage capacity and reduce the risk of future flooding in the area, enhancing the quality of life for residents and businesses along the stretch of the Dr Busia Highway.
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Source: Graphic Online
