Effiakuma Residents Demolish Structures for Cape Coast-Takoradi Dualisation Project

Residents of Effiakuma in Takoradi who occupy structures within the right-of-way of the Cape Coast–Takoradi dualisation project have begun demolishing their properties to pave the way for construction. The residents say the action follows the expiration of the relocation deadline given to them by authorities. While welcoming the project and expressing readiness to relocate, some affected residents have appealed to the contractor to supervise the demolition exercise, citing confusion over the exact boundaries of the right-of-way they are required to vacate. “Although we are not fully prepared, we have to comply in the interest of the project and the development of our town. Initially, some officials came to mark the area, and later the contractor made different demarcations. At the moment, we are unsure of the exact boundaries and are confused. “We are therefore appealing to the contractor to come to the site and begin work so we can clearly understand the areas to vacate,” a resident, Anthony Nuamah told Citi News. “We do not really know the exact extent of the area. We were told it could be 40 feet on both the left and right, but no specific measurements have been officially given. So for now, we are simply moving our belongings. It is a government directive, and we have to comply,” another resident, Alex Kotar, said. Other residents, including Ato Kwamena, have called on the authorities to provide alternative relocation sites for those affected. He noted that some of the structures marked for demolition serve as sources of livelihood for residents. “The MP was supposed to intervene on our behalf because he is closest to us and understands our concerns. He should be able to convey our grievances to the authorities to help bring us some relief,” he said.