By Haruna Kuyateh
Passengers and motorists using the Barra-Kuntair-Kerewan Route have urged the National Roads Authority (NRA) to expedite the completion of ongoing works on the Jamagen and Kuntair bridges.
The road users said delays in completing the projects, coupled with damage caused to the road during water diversion works, have created difficulties for commuters and increased transportation costs.
Vehicles travelling between Barra, Kuntair, Kerewan and Farafenni are currently using the longer Hakalang route, resulting in increased fuel consumption and higher fares.
According to passengers, fares from Barra to Kuntair have increased from D75 to between D100 and D150, while the fare from Barra to Kerewan has risen from D100 to D150. The fare to Farafenni is reportedly around D300 for “gele-geles,” with seven-seater vehicles charging higher rates.
Passengers have also called on the transport union to help regulate fares, saying the increases have created misunderstandings between drivers and commuters.
The delays have also affected students following the reopening of schools, with some struggling to reach their schools on time due to the longer route.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers have equally faced difficulties accessing antenatal and other health services at the Kuntair Minor Health Centre.
Community members have responded by organizing a local initiative to fill sandbags and facilitate crossings for students, motorcyclists and pregnant women seeking to access the health facility and conduct other essential activities.
Residents described the prolonged delay in completing the works as an additional challenge to livelihoods, transportation and access to essential social services in the affected communities.