Work to begin on a 37 billion-cedi park at Tema

Tema, Sept.6, GNA - Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, Minister of Harbours and Railways on Tuesday cut the sod for work to begin on a 37 billion-cedi articulated trucks park at Tema.

The project being undertaken by Ports Handling Company, a subsidiary of Antrak Group of Companies in two phases would help ease congestion at the Tema Port. It is expected to be completed within five months.

Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi pledged the Government's commitment to promote efficiency in the Maritime Industry.

However, he expressed concern about the haphazard manner vehicles were parked at the harbour, and was optimistic the project would contribute to efficient and brisk business at the port. Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi said the Ministry would consider the possibility to construct three of such parks on the route from Tema to Paga in the Upper East Region.

Mr Mak Young, Project Manager, said the first phase of the project consisting of a vehicle transit centre to monitor transit trucks from landlocked countries would cost 12.4 billion cedis. The second phase consist of the construction of a hotel, restaurant, a mosque and a filling station.

Alhaji Asuma Banda, Chairman of Antrak Group of Companies, commended ECOBANK for supporting the project, and urged other financial institutions to support for the early completion of the project. Mr Brian Adomako, Board Chairman of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, said the project would give an impetus to Ghana as the gateway to West Africa.

About 40 people would be at the park when completed.