Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jacob Hara MP, has expressed confidence that the first 30 kilometres of the 60-kilometre Kaphatenga to Benga stretch of the M005 will be completed before the onset of the rainy season.
Hon. Hara made these remarks on Monday during his routine progress monitoring visit to the construction site.
The Minister stated that he was pleased with the progress, noting that over 90 percent of the project's infrastructure has been completed, and the contractor has begun laying the base in some sections.
Approximately 120 culverts and two bridges have been constructed, with the new bridges replacing the old single-lane structures.
He also cautioned the contractor to improve the detours and make them more comfortable for users.
He emphasized that ensuring the passable of both the detours and the road is a contractual obligation.
The Minister warned that he would take action if there is no improvement in the management of the detours.
Additionally, the Minister revealed that the 104 kilometre stretch of road from Benga to Dwangwa is likely to be awarded to a contractor before the end of this year, once all necessary procedures are completed.