The recent demonstration by the Chief and residents of Brekuso over the deplorable state of their roads should not be treated as just another protest.
It is a clear reminder of the urgent need for government, particularly the Ministry of Roads and Highways, to act on a road that serves an important link between several communities.
The Brekuso road is not only used by residents of the community. It provides an important connection for people travelling from areas such as Amasaman, Dome, Achimota and Ablekuma towards Aburi and other parts of the Eastern Region.
For motorists coming from these areas, a completed Brekuso stretch could provide a more direct route instead of forcing them to join the main roads and take longer journeys.
The poor condition of the road therefore affects more than the immediate community. It contributes to longer travel times, vehicle damage and unnecessary pressure on other major roads.
What makes the situation more worrying is the uncertainty surrounding the stalled project.
Reports indicate that work had commenced on the road but was later stopped following a change of contractor. The current contractor, First Sky, is said to have indicated that the contract to continue the work has not yet been properly signed.
If the problem is simply an issue of completing the contractual arrangements, then there should be no reason for the people of Brekuso to continue waiting.
Government must urgently clarify the status of the project and remove whatever administrative obstacles are delaying construction.
The road is also important because of developments in the area, including the presence of the Ashesi University campus, which means the route serves students, workers, residents and businesses.
Road infrastructure should not be provided only after residents take to the streets. Communities should not have to demonstrate before basic development projects receive attention.
We therefore call on the Roads and Highways Ministry to engage the contractor, the traditional authorities and the residents, resolve the outstanding issues and get the project back on site.
The people of Brekuso have made their concerns clear. They should not have to demonstrate again before their road is fixed.
A functional road will not only improve lives in Brekuso but also strengthen an important transport link between communities in the Greater Accra and Eastern regions.
The time to act is now.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Senior Bright Anfoh, Managing Editor, Bullet TV