The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has assured that the government will make timely payments to road contractors to prevent the accumulation of interest on delayed certificates and the resulting financial burden on the state.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, Mr. Agbodza explained that in the past, delayed payments to contractors led to the accrual of substantial interest costs, placing unnecessary strain on the national budget.
He emphasized that under the Big Push Project, the government will not pay interest on contracts, urging contractors to complete their work promptly to ensure swift processing and payment.
“The state ends up paying more in interest because of delays. This time, there will be no interest on Big Push contracts. We want the projects completed and payments made swiftly,” he stated.
The Minister also addressed concerns raised by PAC Chairperson Abena Osei Asare regarding the inconveniences caused by ongoing roadworks, particularly on the Accra-Kumasi Highway, and the destruction of infrastructure by service providers.
In response, Mr. Agbodza assured the Committee that measures are being taken to address these issues, noting that some individuals found guilty of damaging road infrastructure have already been prosecuted and jailed.
Source: AdomOnline
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