The Minister of Railway Development, Joe Ghartey has stated that Ghana will need an estimated 7.8 billion dollars to construct rail tracks.
Although he clarifies that the figure was an estimate put together by consultancy firm “team engineers” in 2013, he asserts that the cost could possibly escalate which may increase government’s budget for the sector.
Speaking to Citi Business News, the minister said a lot must be done to ensure the rapid progress of the railway construction project.
“When you look at the figures there may be changes because this was in 2013. So it may be 7.8 minimum but if you add all the associated infrastructures, add the rolling stock and others, it will be more than that” he stated.
Meanwhile government has begun processes to commission feasibility studies to construct railway lines to connect to the various agricultural producing areas.
According to government, six companies have been shortlisted for the contract.
President Akufo-Addo upon assumption of office, identified the railways as an important economic infrastructure hence the creation of a separate ministry to that effect.
Addressing an audience at a Railway investment opportunities meeting at the Israelis’ s Ambassador’s residence in Accra, the Minister of Railway Development, Joe Ghartey said agric remains one of the major investment opportunities in developing the country hence must be given priority.
“We are in the process of commissioning feasibility study for this plan. This is a proposal by engineers who did the master plan. It passes through Takyiman but the feasibility study can tell us for example that instead of teaching, we should divert so this is the proposal going onto the next stage.”
“We are also in the process of awarding the contract as well” he said.
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By: Jessica Ayorkor Aryee/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana