Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has announced plans to reintroduce road tolls in Ghana, but with a twist. Apexnewsgh reports
Unlike the traditional toll booths that caused traffic congestion, the new system will utilize technological platforms to make toll collection easier and more efficient.
Agbodza made this announcement during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 20. He emphasized that the new system will not cause obstructions on the road, but rather provide a seamless and mechanized platform for toll collection.
The minister-designate also recalled the controversy surrounding the Akufo-Addo administration’s decision to remove road tolls, which was met with opposition from the then-NDC Minority. Agbodza noted that there was negligence in the way the removal was handled.
In addition to the reintroduction of road tolls, Agbodza highlighted the need to address the significant debt in the road sector, which currently stands at 130 million Ghana Cedis with an accrued interest of 665 million Ghana Cedis. He pledged to discuss the issue with the Finance Minister to find a solution and prevent further wastage of funds.
Agbodza also emphasized the need to review the contract awarding process for road projects in Ghana, citing concerns about the transparency and accountability of the current system. He advocated for a collaborative approach, involving stakeholders, contractors, and awarding agencies to address the issues.
The introduction of technological platforms for toll collection is expected to improve efficiency, reduce congestion, and increase revenue generation for road maintenance and development.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
