KAKATA, Margibi County—Motorists and residents of Weala Town along the Monrovia–Gbarnga Highway in Margibi County have raised concerns over a portion of the road that appears to be sinking, a situation that has reportedly led to numerous accidents and two deaths.
By: Yawah Y. Jaivey
The 176-kilometer Monrovia–Gbarnga asphalt highway, constructed in 2016 and named in honor of the late Liberian Chief Suakoko, cost the Liberian government more than US$100 million. The project was funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Chinese construction firm China Chongqing Construction Corporation (CICO).
Since its completion and subsequent dedication, the road has experienced sporadic damage, with the latest incident occurring at a sinking section in Weala Town.
Despite the evident deterioration, the road remains open, and no construction work has yet begun to address the situation.
Samuel N. V. Ketter, Commissioner of Cinta Township, along with Weala residents and motorists, have expressed deep concern about the deteriorating road condition.
Commissioner Ketter told FrontPage Africa recently that the sinking road has caused numerous accidents, resulting into at least two deaths.
“Just recently, a vehicle belonging to a top brass of the Liberia National Police veered off the road due to the sinking condition,” Commissioner Ketter recounted.
He added, “Visitors driving on this major highway often unknowingly hit the sinking portion. The authorities should have intervened by now and repaired the road. We hope better sense prevails and the authorities take up the work on a war footing.”
Commissioner Ketter disclosed that he has alerted the Ministry of Public Works’ local office in Margibi County, urging immediate intervention to prevent further accidents and loss of life.
For his part, Joseph Binda, a commercial driver, also voiced concern, warning that the unrepaired road could lead to continued tragedy if not addressed urgently.
Joseph and other drivers believe that authorities must act quickly to eliminate the danger the sinking section is posing to motorists and commuters.
When contacted, Margibi County Resident Engineer Hassan Zuannah Fahnbulleh confirmed that the citizens had formally notified his office about the road condition.
“A communication has already been sent to the ministry by me. They sent an assessment team, and they are doing the documentation to start soon,” Mr. Fahnbulleh told FrontPage Africa.
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