Soakage (V/R), Nov. 01, GNA- Rehabilitation and construction works on the Soakage-Akatsi road, otherwise known as the ECOWAS Trunk Road is progressing steadily.

The project is being funded by KFW of the Republic of Germany and the Government of Ghana at a cost of 197 billion cedis. This came to light when Mr Kofi Dzamesi, Volta Regional Minister visited the project site with some District Chief Executives to acquaint themselves with the progress of work being undertaking by China International Water and Electronic Corporation (CWE). The project is scheduled for completion by October next year. Briefing the Minister and his entourage, Mr. Kwame Agyapong, Project Engineer said physical work done so far on the 29.4 kilometre asphalt road was at 20.6 per cent and expressed the hope that it would be completed on schedule.

He said though work on the project started late; the Chinese Company was committed to meeting the deadline and called on the communities along the project area to cooperate with the contractor. Mr Shao Yongjun of the CWE said, the workforce, made up of 248 locals and 31 expatriates would be increased to speed up the project. Mr Dzamesi expressed his satisfaction at the level of work done so far, and encouraged the contractor to " maintain the standard". He said the road was dear to the heart of government and the people of the Volta Region and advised the contractor to avoid delays. The Minister asked the contractor to contact the District Assemblies in the area or the Regional Coordinating Council for assistance when necessary.

In an interaction with the workers at the site, some complained of low wages and the refusal of the Chinese Company to pay their medical bills and over time allowance.

The Minister earlier paid a courtesy call on Bishop Adanuti of Keta-Akatsi Diocese of the Catholic Church and presented a ram and 100 tubers of yam to the Church. He commended the Bishop for the role he played in resolving the Adaklu-Anyigbe District capital issue.