Roads and Highways Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza has called on contractors executing government’s Big Push road projects to prioritise durable drainage systems, warning that this year’s heavy rainfall has exposed weaknesses in the construction of some roads across the country.

Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the Volta Region, Mr Agbodza said road infrastructure must be designed to withstand seasonal rains, stressing that effective drainage is essential to preventing erosion and extending the lifespan of roads.

He observed that recent downpours have highlighted shortcomings in the way some roads were constructed in the past, insisting that rainfall should not be used as an excuse for failed infrastructure.

The Minister urged contractors to adhere strictly to engineering standards, particularly in the design and construction of drainage channels, earthworks and road compaction, to ensure completed projects remain resilient during periods of heavy rainfall.

According to him, drainage structures must be properly engineered to accommodate stormwater, while every stage of construction should meet the required technical specifications to prevent roads from being washed away.

Mr Agbodza, however, expressed satisfaction with the pace of work on some of the projects visited, saying he was optimistic they would be completed within the stipulated timelines.

He disclosed that the rehabilitation of the Atimpoku–Asikuma Junction road, being undertaken by Dwawill Limited, had earlier faced possible contract termination due to slow progress.

The Minister explained that the contractor was issued with a final warning after failing to meet expected milestones earlier this year but noted that work has since improved following the intervention.