Work has started on the Nsam-Obobogo-Damas road in Yaounde III Sub division. The construction work which kicked off last Sunday September 25 has brought a big sigh of relief to inhabitants of Nsam, Obobogo and Damas. At the Nsam junction yesterday, people went about their daily chores with much difficulty. The chilly weather had rendered the road muddy and slippery as it has been graded for work to begin. The only means of transport are commercial motorbikes. Transport fares now range from FCFA 200 to FCFA 300.
Paul M. who lives in Obobogo said he leaves home everyday at 6:00 am and takes a taxi to Efoulan before getting another to work. Construction work is being carried out by Razel and will cover a distance of three kilometres. Work is expected to be completed in 12 months. Cyrille Ayi Ateba, of the Yaounde Urban Council said construction will cost more than FCFA 2 billion to be financed by government through the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing. The road, according to him, will have two lanes with width of 3.5m wide and parking space of 2m. “The road will not be widened but we will demolish structures that people have illegally constructed,” he said. What will be particular about the new road is that it will be made of concrete and there will be improved access to water and electricity networks in the area. Ateba said the major problem facing the enterprise for now is the rain. He however expressed hope that the company will be able to complete the work before the deadline in spite of the weather. He said studies are going on for the construction of the road linking Damas junction and the Nsimeyong-Rond Point Express road.
Benoit Ngono, Head of Mission, Razel said what is going on is the demarcation of the road and planning the construction. He said the company had enough equipment capable of fulfilling the task ahead of them. The Chief of Obobogo, Alphonse Assiga said the road is welcome because it will bring development, in the area. Even though the road is seen as an aspect of development for some bike riders it will not bring good tidings. Jean Paul K. a bike rider said business is flourishing now but when the road will be completed, the City Council will not allow them on the road. “We are enjoying now but when work will be over, we will be chased away from here,” he said.
