Minister of Roads and Highways Kwasi Amoako-Atta, has revealed that the government has released an amount of GHS4 million for the rehabilitation of the Yapei and Yeji bridges in the Northern Region.

The two bridges were closed to traffic for emergency repair works in order to avert any catastrophe.

On Tuesday, 28 November, Parliament summoned the sector minister to explain circumstances that led to the closure.

Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, speaking on the floor of parliament, noted that the closure of the bridge has resulted in untold hardship for travellers, especially as the Christmas season is drawing closer.

He said: “Mr Speaker, we want the Roads and Highways Minister to furnish this house with what plans and alternative measures he put in place before announcing the closure of the bridge and what steps he is taking, together with the District Coordinating Council and the Assemblies to end this.

“The closure is affecting businesses, it is affecting transportation, and we are in a (the) Christmas (season) where people will be moving their goods and services.”

Mr Amoako-Atta, who appeared before Parliament on Wednesday November 29 told the House that: “The closure was to enable the emergency repair work to be carried out.”

“The estimated cost is approximately GHS4million and is going to be funded by the Road Fund,” he revealed.

He added that the repair works will last for a month.