Nkroful (W/R), April 20, GNA- Mr Kwesi Blay, Deputy Western Regional Minister has inspected the conditions of some roads leading to cocoa growing areas in the Western Region, which are soon to be rehabilitated. The five roads, which cover a total distance of 33.3 kilometres is estimated to cost GH¢5.23 million and expected to be completed by December this year.

Five different contractors had been awarded the contract and have been given the go-ahead to begin work. They include the eight kilometre Telekubokaso-Anyinase road, and another six kilometre stretch within the area. Also to be rehabilitated are the Asaasetre-Adubrim six kilometres road, the four kilometre Enchi-jensue road and the Asankrangwa-Moseaso stretch, covering a distance of nine point five kilometres. During the visit it was noticed that the contractors had cleared the site and had began constructing the culverts. Most of the contractors claimed that the rains had hampered the pace of work but pledged to complete within schedule.

Mr Blay said the construction of the "cocoa roads" was aimed at opening up cocoa growing areas to facilitate easy transportation of cocoa and other food crops. He said most food crops perish at the farm gates due to poor road networks and that the construction of the roads would bring relief to the farmers.

Mr Blay expressed his satisfaction at the level of work, but reminded the contractors that any delay on their part would lead to the termination of the contract.

He told the contractors that, they should not use the rains as an excuse to delay the projects.

Mr Blay hinted that the second phase of the project would cover a distance of 123.5 kilometres in six districts of the western region. They are Juabeso, 18km, Bia, 63km, Sefwi Wiawso 8.5 km, Bibiani, 10 km, Jomoro, 9km and Mpohor Wassa East 14.9km. The projects, he said, would soon be awarded on contract.