By Buba Gagigo
National Roads Authority (NRA) has refuted the KMC Mayor’s claims that they are obstructing his administration’s efforts to implement a major road construction project within the municipality but argued that roads must be wide enough to satisfy minimum.
The KMC recently said the NRA is doing everything in its power to stop his council’s road project meant for the public. Talib said NRA argued that building these roads would require demolishing some compounds which he said KMC has no intention of doing so.
“NRA are mandated to build and maintain roads in The Gambia. We will work in a collaborative manner with any entity building roads, including KMC, to ensure that they meet the required standards to serve our people. NRA are not in the business of demolishing buildings or advising anyone to “demolish anyone’s hard-earned property”, as put by KMC Mayor. However, roads must be wide enough to satisfy minimum design and operational requirements, and should accommodate all road users, including pedestrians,” they said.
They also highlighted the importance accommodating relevant utilities within the road right-of-way to serve the needs of the people.
“All of these must be factored in the cost of the construction works. The NRA remains open to continued partnership and cooperation with all stakeholders,” they said.
The National Road Authority also described Talib’s allegations are baseless and it does not reflect the reality of the NRA’S collaboration with the KMC.
“The NRA worked closely with KMC technicians and senior officials including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Planning Director, and Deputy Director for Services. NRA provided technical advice and guidance and continue to engage with KMC to ensure that the roads are built to the required standards. The KMC team are quite appreciative of the advice and assistance provided by the NRA. Had the KMC Mayor consulted with his team, his pronouncement would have been different, and more complimentary,” NRA said.
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