The Ministry of Roads and Highways has unveiled new measures aimed at eradicating substandard bitumen from Ghana’s road construction sector.
Speaking to industry stakeholders earlier today, Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that only high-quality bitumen is used, especially for the ambitious ‘Big Push’ infrastructure projects. “We are determined to establish a clear policy direction and a robust regulatory framework that guarantees durable and cost-effective road infrastructure,” Agbodza stated.
He reiterated the government’s resolve to deliver road infrastructure that offers true value for money to the people of Ghana.
The announced reforms include strengthening regulations, introducing a licensing regime, updating technical specifications, and ensuring complete traceability of bitumen from source to construction site.
To drive these reforms, the Minister has established a technical working committee tasked with monitoring bitumen quality nationwide and providing evidence-based policy recommendations to enhance regulation, accreditation, and overall management.
Mr. Agbodza highlighted that the goal is to guarantee the use of quality bitumen under the ‘Big Push’ initiative, promote a sustainable supply chain, improve transparency in procurement, and align Ghana’s standards with global best practices.
Stakeholders at the meeting welcomed the government’s intervention and identified ongoing challenges, including inadequate import regulation, the negative effects of black-market activities, and persistent inconsistencies in product standards among suppliers.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
