Accra, Dec. 23, GNA - A 16-Million-Euro Contract agreement for the supply of 90 modular steel truss bridges to Ghana in the next three years for installation in rural areas was signed in Accra on Tuesday. The Dutch government is funding the project being undertaken by Dijkstall B.V of the Netherlands. It has a grant element of 35 per cent.

The first batch of 30 steel bridges are expected to be delivered in June next year.

Dr Richard Winfred Anane, Minister of Roads and Transport, who signed for Ghana said it was government's policy to open up the rural areas to improve on the standard of living of the people. Mr Bob Hensen, Second Secretary, Commercial Affairs, Culture, Press, Information of the Netherlands Embassy who witnessed the signing ceremony expressed appreciation to the government for the decision to install the bridges.

He said the free movement of goods and services was an essential element of economic development.

Mr Martin hMensa (ed.correct), Director of the Department of Feeder Roads, said the department had prioritised the installation of the bridges on 1,200 sites out of the 5,000 identified sites across the country.

He said the installations of the bridges would enhance commercial opportunities and allow more people in the rural areas have access to marketing centres instead of leaving their produce to rot.