By Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako
A major demolition exercise has commenced in , the capital of the , to pave way for the dualisation of the Dzodze stretch under Lot 8 of government’s flagship “Big Push” road infrastructure programme.
The operation, which began on Thursday, February 26, targets structures situated within the officially designated right-of-way for the road expansion project. Affected properties include portions of fuel stations, some churches, residential buildings, and even sections of public facilities such as the local police station.
Ahead of the state-led demolition, several property owners opted for self-demolition after receiving compensation packages from government.
In an interview with News Volta, some affected residents explained that their decision to dismantle their structures voluntarily followed months of consultation and engagement.
“We were engaged early, and after compensation was paid, we decided to remove our structures ourselves to avoid forceful demolition,” one property owner told News Volta.
Authorities confirmed that compensation payments were processed before demolition works commenced, describing the exercise as coordinated and lawful.
In January, a town hall meeting and sensitisation programme was organised for residents and project-affected persons. The engagement was led by , Member of Parliament for Ketu North, in collaboration with the Municipal Assembly under the leadership of Rev. Martin Amenaki, the Municipal Chief Executive.
Also present were officials from the Regional Highways Authority, the Volta Regional Minister , and representatives of the project contractors.
According to the MP stressed that the project is designed to bring long-term economic relief to the area.
“We understand the emotional and economic impact of demolitions, but this road project is critical to the future of Dzodze and Ketu North. Due process has been followed, and compensation has been addressed,” he said.
While some residents have welcomed the development as a step toward modernization, others remain anxious about relocation and business continuity.
A fuel station operator whose frontage was affected told News Volta:
“The compensation came, but rebuilding will take time. We hope the road expansion will eventually increase business flow.”
Some church leaders also expressed optimism, noting that although structures were partially affected, the broader benefits of improved accessibility could enhance community growth.
The dualisation of the Dzodze stretch is expected to:
- Reduce traffic congestion
- Improve road safety
- Enhance cross-border and transit movement
- Boost local trade and tourism activity
- Increase property values in the long term
The corridor serves as a key link within the Volta Region, facilitating the movement of goods, agricultural produce, and commercial traffic.
Urban planners note that road expansion projects often bring tension between development needs and social displacement. However, authorities insist that stakeholder engagement and compensation compliance were prioritised in this case.
A municipal official told News Volta that strict adherence to right-of-way regulations is necessary to prevent future encroachment and ensure sustainable infrastructure planning.
As demolition continues, attention now shifts to the speed and quality of the dualisation works. Residents say timely execution will determine whether the temporary hardship translates into lasting economic gains.
For Dzodze, the transformation marks both a difficult transition and a hopeful step toward improved mobility and regional connectivity.
Source News Volta
