By: Emmanuel Koffa | Grand Kru Correspondent
Barclayville, Grand Kru County |Feb. 8, 2026| The Geeken–Karkakpo road corridor, linking Grand Kru and Sinoe counties, has been completely cut off following the collapse of the Chengbetee Bridge, leaving businesspeople, traders, and transport operators grappling with heavy financial losses.
The Chengbetee Bridge, which connects Buah to Upper Bolloh, is a critical transportation link for communities along the corridor. Its collapse has rendered the road impassable to vehicles, disrupting trade, travel, and access to essential services.
Local businesspeople say transportation costs have sharply increased as goods are now moved by motorbikes or carried manually across unsafe sections of the road.
Perishable goods are reportedly being lost, while some traders have suspended operations due to the high cost of alternative routes.
Speaking to this paper, prominent businessman Zayzay Togba described the situation as devastating for local commerce.
He expressed concern that despite intense mining activities in Grand Kru District #2, including the operation of more than 40 excavators, there has been no meaningful intervention to maintain the bridge or surrounding roads.
Togba further disclosed that authorities reportedly collect about US$1,000 monthly from mining operations in the district, yet affected communities continue to suffer from neglected infrastructure.
“This bridge is a lifeline for our people. Its collapse has left businesspeople counting losses and communities cut off. Immediate action is required,” Togba said.
Residents also report difficulties accessing healthcare, education, and emergency services, as ambulances and service vehicles can no longer reach several communities.
Businesspeople and community leaders are now appealing to the Grand Kru County administration, the Ministry of Public Works, and the central government to urgently rehabilitate the Chengbetee Bridge and restore safe passage along the Geeken–Karkakpo road corridor.
As of press time, there has been no official response from government authorities regarding plans to repair the bridge.
