The Minister for Local Government and Decentralization, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, has said rigorous digital monitoring protocols have been implemented to ensure sustainability of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

According to him, the measure is to also ensure utilising these tools properly.

"Mr. President, the biggest threat I must say, there is to this project, is lack of proper maintenance and misuse, especially for private endeavours. Through the Programme, we have taken steps to train operators, drivers and technicians as part of the overall implementation of the maintenance protocols and to ensure successful implementation of DRIP.

"We have established stringent monitoring controls both digitally and by a well-crafted team, made up of stakeholder ministries and would demand strict compliance. This is to ensure the sustainability of the Programme and the proper use of these equipment," he said, a report by myjoyonline.com said.

The minister was speaking on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at the Black Star Square, during the commissioning of a comprehensive fleet of 2,240 pieces of equipment, including motor graders, backhoes, rollers, wheel loaders, bulldozers, tipper trucks, concrete mixers, water tankers, and low beds.

These machines are expected to play a crucial role in the nationwide improvement of road infrastructure.

Martin Adjei Mensah-Korsah who is also the Member of Parliament for Techiman South MP, said commitment to the efficient operation of district assemblies is demonstrated by the District Road Improvement Programme initiative, which is unprecedented in Ghanaian history.

He further recommended that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) follow the guidelines when using the equipment that is provided by the program.

Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah added that the staff operating the machines had received proper training in order to ensure the machines are used effectively and efficiently.

KA/AE