• Metascholar News Portal
• Local News , News
• February 7, 2025
• 38965 views
• 3 minutes Read

Government Halts Implementation of National Roads Authority Act

The Ministry of Roads and Highways has announced the suspension of the implementation of the National Roads Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1118), citing the need for further consultations with relevant stakeholders. This decision follows concerns raised by key industry players and interest groups about the structural and operational changes the Act seeks to introduce. In an official press release issued on February 7, 2025, the Ministry explained that the suspension aims to provide room for constructive dialogue and allow stakeholders to voice their perspectives on the new framework. The Act, which was passed by Parliament in July 2024, was designed to enhance efficiency in Ghana’s road infrastructure management by consolidating three major road agencies the Ghana Highway Authority, the Department of Urban Roads, and the Department of Feeder Roads into a single entity known as the National Roads Authority (NRA). This restructuring was intended to foster better coordination, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and improve service delivery in the sector. However, despite the intended benefits, concerns have emerged from various quarters, including industry experts, road contractors, and worker unions, who fear that the transition may lead to operational challenges, redundancy issues, and disruptions in ongoing projects. Some critics argue that the lack of extensive stakeholder engagement before the passage of the Act has contributed to these apprehensions. In response, the Ministry assured the public of its dedication to enhancing efficiency in Ghana’s road sector while ensuring that the concerns of all affected parties are adequately addressed. “The decision to suspend the implementation of the NRA Act is a result of the Government’s commitment to addressing major concerns raised by key stakeholders. The Ministry reassures the public of its commitment to streamlining operations and enhancing coordination in the road sector,” the statement read. The Ministry further emphasized that the suspension does not mean the government is abandoning the initiative but rather taking a more inclusive approach to ensure that all relevant parties are on board before full implementation. Officials are expected to engage with road agencies, labor unions, transport operators, and other critical stakeholders in the coming months to refine the implementation process and address lingering concerns. This move has been met with mixed reactions. While some stakeholders have welcomed the decision, urging the government to ensure broader consultation, others believe the delay may slow down much-needed reforms in the road sector. The Ministry of Roads and Highways is expected to provide further updates on the timeline for implementing the Act once…