The deteriorating condition of the River Nor Bridge, coupled with the lack of pliable road network, has severely hindered the free movement of residents in Tienpo Statutory District, River Gee County, thereby stalling all commercial activities. The deplorable condition of the bridge has turned into a “death trap.” With such a condition, concerned citizens have cried for urgent intervention from the government, and development partners to rescue the area during this critical stage of the rainy season. River Nor, the largest river in electoral district #1, connects two major districts, Karford and Nanee, as well as parts of neighboring Sinoe County in the southeast.
The bridge, which serves as a vital link between the communities, was damaged by flooding following heavy rainfall at the onset of this year’s rainy season. Since then, no intervention has been made, leaving residents cut-off from other parts of the county. As a result, residents in Tienpo Statutory District have faced extreme difficulties transporting essential goods and services. The poor condition of both the River Nor Bridge and surrounding roads, has disrupted farming activities and local trade. In an exclusive interview, several local farmers, including members of the Karford Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, expressed frustration over the devastating impact of the situation. They reported suffering huge losses after nearly ten acres of cassava farms were left to rot, because they could not transport their produce to nearby markets.
Oliver Jay, Business Manager of the Karford Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, and Madam Susannah S. Donmon, a senior member of the Group, explained that the deplorable farm-to-market roads have made it nearly impossible to move their harvest.
“Our cassava spoiled, because there was no way to carry it out,” Madam Donmon told this newspaper. “Months of hard work and investment are going to waste.”
The entire Tienpo Statutory District, including Sheriken Town, continues to struggle with limited access to roads, and basic agricultural facilities despite being known for its fertile soil, and hardworking farming population.
Residents have appealed to the Ministry of Public Works, River Gee County authorities, and international partners, to prioritize the rehabilitation of the River Nor Bridge, and key road networks in the district to restore free movement and support local agriculture.