Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has emphasized that henceforth, the government will not provide compensation to individuals who deliberately erect structures on lands earmarked for public infrastructure.During a working visit to the project site in Asutsuare-Volivo-Aveyime on Tuesday, July 15, the Minister noted that only existing structures are factored in when planning and budgeting for government projects.

Therefore, any new buildings that are put up after the budget has been finalized will not qualify for compensation.

“When the project is being put together in terms of cost, and then there is no structure there, the cost does not include the new structures after the cost has been settled.

“Because it is becoming a habit of some people that immediately, when they know the government intends to build a road along a certain corridor, people take advantage to go and build in the right of way, hoping that they will be compensated, and that must not be encouraged.“Of course, if the project was approved and the right of way established before anybody goes to build in the right of way, we are under no obligation to honour it,” he said.

His remarks follow the delay of the Asutsuare-Volivo-Aveyime road project due to delayed compensation to affected residents.

Over 200 farmers have had their farms destroyed as a result of the ongoing construction work.

At present, 71 of the victims have been settled, while the rest remain hopeful that their compensation will be settled soon.

The Roads Minister has, however, stressed the importance of keeping precise and comprehensive records of compensation-related claims.

According to him, a detailed record will expedite the execution of the road project.

The $53 million project, a part of the Eastern Corridor Roads Development Project, is expected to enhance connectivity and improve access.

The 23.9-kilometre road is aimed at improving transportation and boosting economic activities in the region.

It's funded by the African Development Bank, commenced in December last year, with China Jiangxi International Economic and Technical Cooperation Company as the main contractor.

When completed, it will shorten travel time and open up better access to trade centers for residents.