Respite as Katsina Begins Reconstruction of 39km Road After 20 Years

Francis Sardauna in Katsina 

Relief is on the way for residents and motorists plying the Shargalle-Dutsi-Ingawa Road as the Katsina State Government has commenced the reconstruction of the 39-kilometre road after 20 years of neglect.

The road, which has been in deplorable condition for 20 years, was awarded and flag-off by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda on yesterday in Shargalle community after its rehabilitation by the administration of late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2004.

Speaking during the ceremonial flag-off of the project, Governor Radda said the hitherto abandoned road was awarded to Mothercat Construction Company at the cost of N13.8 billion and will be completed in 12 months.

He said the abysmal condition of the road has not only impeded the movement of the people, but adversely affected trade, agriculture and other socio-economic activities of the state.

He reiterated that the rehabilitation of the 39-kilometre road would ease transportation of goods and services and foster economic growth, attract investment, create jobs and improve access to markets. 

While identifying infrastructural development as a means of stimulating local economy and improving the quality of lives, Governor Radda said 40 percent of the N13.8 billion has been paid to the constructor handling the project.

He, however, urged traditional leaders and other citizens within the corridor of the project to hold the  contractor accountable to ensure that he executed a qualitative job that will last for years.

Governor Radda said: “The construction of the Shargalle-Dutsi-Ingawa road, encompassing a stretch of 39 kilometres at the sum of N13.8 billion. 40 percent of this amount has already been paid to the contractor. 

“This road has remained neglected since its last rehabilitation in 2004 under the administration of late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua of blessed memory. This road is crucial for connectivity and economic development of our communities.”