Valco-Kpone road turns nightmare as motorists fume, tanker drivers threaten fresh strike

The 7.2-kilometre Valco Roundabout-Kpone Junction road in Tema has become a nightmare for motorists and tanker drivers due to its poor condition. Despite assurances from authorities that the road would be rehabilitated, little progress has been made. As of August 30, 2026, the road remains in a deteriorated state with deep potholes and damaged sections. This has led to significant frustration among motorists, especially tanker and truck drivers who rely on the route to transport petroleum products and other cargo.

Motorists report that what should be a 30-minute journey can now take over three hours, particularly during heavy congestion. The road's poor condition has resulted in frequent vehicle breakdowns, increased maintenance costs, and concerns about road safety. Tanker drivers, in particular, have threatened to go on strike if authorities do not address their concerns.

George Nyaunu, the National Chairman of the Ghana Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, expressed concern over the prolonged deterioration of the road and questioned the timeline for its completion.

The road is a critical industrial corridor, connecting major facilities like the Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO), Tema Tank Farm, Quantum Oil, and the Kpone Thermal Power Station. It is responsible for transporting thousands of liters of petroleum products and industrial materials, making its proper functioning essential for Ghana's fuel distribution network and logistics.

The deteriorating road not only affects the movement of goods but also increases fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance costs, and delivery times for businesses along the corridor.

Tanker drivers fear the possibility of accidents involving loaded fuel tankers, given the road's poor condition and the concentration of industrial and petroleum facilities along the route. They argue that the road's condition poses a serious safety risk and calls for urgent intervention to prevent the situation from worsening. Despite years of promises, significant progress has not been seen since the Ministry of Roads and Highways began the reconstruction in August 2020.