Roads Ministry threatens legal action against utility companies over excavation of completed roads

The Ministry of Roads and Highways has threatened legal action against Ghana Water Limited, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and telecommunications companies for the unauthorized excavation of completed roads to install infrastructure. Ministry spokesperson Governs Kwame Agbodza addressed the issue on September 29, emphasizing that the ministry would not permit service providers to delay road projects until after excavation for water pipes, electricity cables, or fiber-optic lines.

Agbodza acknowledged that utility providers have legitimate concerns about installing infrastructure along road corridors; however, he stressed the necessity of proper coordination to prevent damage to newly constructed roads and public infrastructure. He specifically cited instances where telecommunications companies had entered roadways without proper authorization, causing damage to government-installed infrastructure.

Agbodza urged utility companies to notify the ministry and obtain permission before undertaking any work within road corridors or near the road right-of-way, providing details of the location, nature, and records of their planned infrastructure. He emphasized that the current road construction program allows for utility works to be carried out alongside projects rather than after completion.

The ministry is determined to prevent the immediate disruption of newly constructed roads for utility installations, warning that any unauthorized excavation will result in legal accountability for the offending service providers.