For years, the Mile 4 Bridge in Nkwen has been a symbol of frustration for residents and commuters using the stretch of road that links Bamenda to four divisions of the North West Region through Bambui. Each rainy season, the bridge transforms into a scene of chaos, with floodwaters from Nkie-Mufeh stream spilling over its banks, rendering the route impassable and cutting off this important link. Now, after years of temporary fixes, hope is on the horizon.
On Tuesday, 21 January 2024, Hilltopvoices Newspaper spotted Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe of the Bamenda III Council at the site, accompanied by a team of engineers. According to our sources at the Council, the visit marked the official installation of the contractor for the long-awaited bridge reconstruction project. The presence of engineers from Edge, a firm known for its expertise in infrastructure development, suggests a major step towards ending the recurrent flooding nightmare.
For years, each downpour transforms the Nkie-Mufeh stream into a raging torrent, overwhelming the narrow, outdated bridge. The floods bring traffic to a standstill, marooning residents and disrupting economic activity. For the people of Nkwen, the bridge has been both a lifeline and a source of despair.
The most recent flood in September 2022 was a stark reminder of the bridge's inadequacies. Residents waded through knee-deep waters, vehicles were abandoned, and businesses along the route suffered heavy losses. Temporary measures by the Bamenda III Council, such as clearing debris and widening the water flow, provided short-term relief but fell far short of addressing the underlying problem.
The sight of a team of engineers at the site has sparked renewed optimism. While details about the project's duration and budget remain under wraps, sources close to the Bamenda III Council confirm that the plan is to construct a modern bridge capable of withstanding heavy rains.
Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe, known for his hands-on approach, was seen engaging with the engineers from Edge, discussing what is expected to be a turnaround project.
"This bridge has been a thorn in the side of our community for far too long. We are committed to delivering a lasting solution," he reportedly told close associates.
For the people of Mile 3, Mile 4 Nkwen and beyond, the reconstruction of the bridge is about more than just improved infrastructure; it is about restoring a sense of normalcy and security. A new, flood-resistant bridge promises to strengthen the connection between these two areas, boost local commerce, and provide a safe passage for schoolchildren, traders, and commuters.
While the announcement brings hope, questions remain about the timeline, funding, and scope of the project. Residents are eager for transparency and regular updates as construction begins.
As the community waits for the first signs of progress, one thing is clear: the reconstruction of the Mile 4 Bridge is not just about fixing a structure, it is about mending the daily lives of thousands who rely on it.
By Bakah Derick
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77