Speaking on Sunday during a tour of OIC road projects within the Greater Banjul Area, Minister Sillah explained that the contractor is expected to expedite and fix the defects identified without delay. He added that surprisingly, some sub-contractors have already demobilised when works are yet to finish.
“That means there is a lot of miscommunication between the consultant, contractor and the sub-contractors. We have told the contractor that under no circumstances would we allow the work to go beyond March. Bundung is a heavily populated community and closing the road from one section to the other has posed huge challenges to the people.”
Speaking on the Bertil Harding Highway 22 kilometre road, the minister expressed delight with the contractor, the consultant and NRA for the work. Sillah said their target is to finish the project before May while confirming that the third overhead bridge is almost completed.
He explained that constructors are now building the guard rail on either side of the road, saying the asphalt layer has already been done and the only thing left is the marking of the road and putting safety measures.
When the road is completed, he expressed optimism that the concerns of the people would be addressed. He noted that they have seen an online YouTube video circulating and misleading, citing that the people who produced the video did not understand how road works are done.
On the Banjul Road project which is near completion, the minister said Banjul has not only seen a face lift but has undergone a complete transformation. He said this came following the award of the contract by the government in 2018 to Gai Construction to embark on an ACP project by constructing all the roads in Banjul, the drainage system and sewage. He revealed that they are profoundly happy with the progress of work.
Responding to delays over the Bundung Road, Momodou Sowe, SSTP managing director, said the main problem is the relocation of utilities. He added that leaking water and blockages are impeding the normal progress of the work.
“We are doing everything possible to reduce the delays and by increasing the subcontractors, working hours and everything necessary. Our work schedule for this road, we expect to finish by end of March 2023,” he promised.
Sulayman Jammeh, the National Assembly Member (NAM) for Bundung, pleaded with the contractor to fast-track the work, noting that since the commencement of the project, it has suffered a lot of delays. He added that the people of Bundung are happy with the project and embrace development. He said the delay in work is causing lots of issues for businesses and residents along the highway.
The minister and his entourage also visited P9 8.35 kilometre and P6 8.60 kilometre roads contracted to Pavi Ford, Huta and Gambisara JV; and the 3.25 kilometre P13 road connecting Sukuta Health center-Kololi-Senegambia.
