A section of a major bridge connecting Asante Mampong and Sataso in the Mampong Municipality has collapsed, leaving residents and commuters deeply concerned about safety and accessibility.
The bridge, which had been in a deteriorating condition for months, finally gave way, causing significant disruptions and raising serious safety concerns.
The Sataso Bridge is a vital link for commuters and transport between Asante Mampong and Sataso and serves as the main route connecting communities like Ejura, Atebubu, and Yeji.
After months of visible deterioration, a section of the bridge partially collapsed on Monday, October 19, 2024, creating a hazardous gap and cutting off part of a crucial route used daily by thousands of drivers.
During a visit to the area, drivers shared their concerns, describing the collapse as a “death trap,” especially for those unfamiliar with the route.
“This has been a death road, causing accidents and deaths within this territory. Strangers who don’t know here, it has been causing accidents. We’re pleading with the authorities to fix this bridge. For farmers, this link is Ejura and Atebubu. This is a huge farming community.”
Another driver also said, “I don’t know why they have not fixed the road up till now, they should fix the road immediately for us. Because if the bridge collapses completely, we won’t be able to work.”
“Some time ago, a vehicle fell inside the broken bridge, they should come to court,” another also said.
Assembly Member for the Adudwan electoral area Kwaku Bernasco explained that the bridge had been in a poor state for over a year, with authorities neglecting the situation.
He described the collapse as a severe hazard, endangering the lives of drivers and passengers alike.
“The road showed signs of deterioration for almost a year, it has been a concern for residents. we complained to authorities and yet we are not seeing any results. Just last week it totally collapsed.”
Bernasco also expressed frustration with the contractor assigned to the bridge repair project, accusing them of providing excuses rather than addressing the problem.