By Emmanuel Koffa/Grand Kru County Correspondent
Grand Kru County, April 7, 2025-Chegbatee Bridge, a bridge that connects more than 14 towns and villages in the Southeast, has collapsed, thereby hindering transportation of goods and services between communities in Grand Kru and Sinoe Counties.
The Chegbatee Bridge serves as a significant route in the Southeast, facilitating movement between towns, including Buah Geeken, Barclayville, Tarbu, Jlateken, Weayean, Doesweh and Big-Suehn. Others are, Small-Suehn, Parluken, Gbanken, Wlopluken, Atlantic Camp, Warkpo, etc.
Commuters, mainly business people, health workers and drivers fear that the prolonged neglect of the bridge would exacerbate poverty and hinder access to education, health care delivery and the delivery of other essential goods and services in that part of the country.
The physical appearance of the bridge suggests it has suffered significant damage due to overweigh from heavy moving objects. This vital link, if not made ready on time, would increase hardship and affect communication and social cohesiveness.
“The bridge, as you can see for yourself has sustained extensive damage due to heavy vehicles, and some earth moving equipment, which has led to structural deficiencies, some road users told the press.
Many locals in Grand Kru County are worried over the potential long-term effects the damaged bridge could have on their livelihoods and access to essential services ahead of the raining season if not repaired on time.
“I rely on this bridge to transport goods to market every day,” said Manson Goe, a local businessman.
Manson fear that without the bridge, his business is in jeopardy, and so is the economic activities of the entire community. He urged the government to step in and address the issue immediately.
The Chegbatee Bridge not only facilitate the movement of goods and people but also connects various communities, making it an essential infrastructure for socio-economic enhancement in the area.
“We cannot afford to wait any longer,” stated Mogamo Johnson, a community youth leader in Chegbatee. “The bridge is our lifeline. Without it, we are cut off from essential services and opportunities. We call on the government to prioritize our concerns and restore this crucial infrastructure”, Johnson laments
In light of the situation, public outcry has grown, with residents organizing local meetings to discuss potential solutions and form a united front in their appeal for assistance.
However, as the situation develops, the future of the Chegbatee Bridge remains uncertain. Residents are hopeful that their pleads will be heard and that prompt measures will be taken to ensure the restoration of this crucial infrastructure, which plays a pivotal role in their daily lives.
