So far, the military Engineering corps has advanced works towards Bole Bakundu, Ngongo, Mabonji, with few kilometers to reach Mbonge junction.
BIR engineers say their target is to make the road passable throughout as the rains intensify. To achieve this, work is focused on the swampy sections of Bole Bakundu Ngongo Mabonji heading towards Nganjo to Mbonge junction. The segment has been the nightmare along the stretch. Passengers and vehicles usually spend several days to go through this section. Though very difficult terrain, the BIR engineers are convinced that the swampy terrain will be stable through the construction of several culverts and intensed backfilling. Despite the slow nature of the construction, one thing remain certain that the area already touched has greatly impacted the lives of the local population. The continuous work being carried out has debunked rumours that the project has been abandoned. The wish of many is to see the road constructed, as it will facilitate movement of persons and goods.
The major works bring carried out include the construction of culverts, opening up of drainages and backfilling with gravels. Once this stretch of the road is handled, movement to Mbonge or Ekondo Titi will be eased and transport fare will greatly reduce.
So far, the section from Kumba to Ekombe has been completed, with the portion from Kombone Mission to Kwa Kwa, set for the final layer. Traveling from Kumba to Kwa Kwa that used to take about an hour, now takes less than 20 minutes, with less transportation fare.
The Section under construction if completed before the rains, then the road would have been more than 80 percent executed.
Expectations of the different communities remain very high as they continue to give their full support and collaboration to the BIR engineers. People from areas that have been tarred, are in jubilation as they can move freely to and from Kumba.
Jude Efutercha
