What should be a vital transportation corridor connecting communities in Bong and Grand Bassa Counties has become a daily ordeal, as commercial motorcyclists have claimed that the Gbarnga–Kokoyah Road has deteriorated into a dangerous stretch that is threatening lives, destroying motorcycles, and crippling local commerce.
Commercial riders operating along the highway have called on the Government of Liberia to immediately intervene and rehabilitate the road in line with the standards of the Ministry of Public Works, warning that continued neglect will only worsen the suffering of thousands of commuters who depend on the route every day.
Speaking to this newspaper, several motorcyclists described the road as one of the most difficult to navigate in Bong County. They said deep potholes, muddy crossings, and uneven surfaces have turned routine travel into a painful and expensive struggle.
According to the riders, they are often forced to stop and untie heavy loads before crossing the worst sections of the road to prevent their motorcycles from overturning.
They said the deteriorating highway has increased transportation costs, delayed the movement of goods, damaged motorcycles, and exposed passengers to unnecessary danger.
The riders also commented on recent road rehabilitation carried out through the office of Bong County District Two Representative James M. Kolleh.
While expressing appreciation for the lawmaker’s effort to improve the road, they argued that the work failed to provide a lasting solution.
According to them, the placement of crushed rocks on several sections of the road has created additional hazards.
They claimed the loose and uneven rocks are damaging motorcycle tires, increasing maintenance costs, and contributing to accidents instead of improving travel conditions.
They are now appealing to Representative Kolleh to ensure that future rehabilitation work is carried out professionally using proper engineering standards to guarantee a safer and more durable road for all users.
The Gbarnga–Kokoyah Road serves as a major economic lifeline, linking Gbarnga to Bong County Electoral Districts One and Two and extending to neighboring Grand Bassa County.
Farmers, traders, students, health workers, and commercial transport operators rely heavily on the corridor to move people and goods.
During the 2023 presidential election campaign, President Joseph NyumaBoakai pledged to pave the Gbarnga–Grand Bassa highway.
However, with no major construction yet visible, residents and road users say the promise remains unfulfilled.
As frustration grows, motorcyclists are urging the government to move beyond promises and deliver lasting road infrastructure, insisting that every day of delay means more hardship, higher transportation costs, damaged vehicles, and increased risks for the thousands of Liberians who depend on the Gbarnga–Kokoyah Road.
