The Sayikope bridge over the Aklakpa stream in the North Tongu district of the Volta region collapsed on Thursday night, January 26, 2024, around 11:00 p.m.
The incident occurred when a trailer truck carrying 600 bags of salt from Ada crossed the bridge, which had been deemed structurally weak by highway authorities and engineers at the North Tongu District Assembly.
Despite weight restrictions and appeals from local residents, the bridge was not closed or repaired. Commuters had reported a deterioration in the bridge’s condition following the Volta River Authority’s (VRA) spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
The collapse highlights the need for an inquiry and thorough engineering assessment of all bridges, especially those affected by VRA-induced floods.
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu Constituency has provided life jackets for the transport of students and other road users. However, no other authorities have visited the scene.
The Sayikope bridge is a critical link for travelers from Mafi Adidome to Juapong and Accra. The incident serves as a wake-up call for the government to carry out necessary recovery and restoration interventions in the aftermath of the spillage catastrophe.
Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but future incidents may have dire consequences.
