The Cameroon Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Njoumessi, has called on the public to avoid accessing the collapsed section of Dschang Cliff where reconstruction work is in progress.
On Friday, May 23, Minister Nganou Njoumessi stated that unauthorised users are delaying the ongoing construction by occupying the site. He emphasised the need to strictly observe the access restrictions indicated by the warning signs around the area.
“The use, by vehicles of all types, of the diversion developed in connection with the works is not only a factor limiting its proper execution but also a real risk to users,” he said. He added, “The diversion is restricted to the movement of work-related equipment and vehicles.”
According to the Minister, during the construction phase, the site remains closed to traffic except for vehicles belonging to the contractor and the Control Mission. He urged the public to comply with safety instructions and act in a civic-minded manner.
The contractor CFHEC carries out the reconstruction work. This was done under the technical supervision of ECTA BTP in an area with unstable physical and geotechnical conditions.
Background on Dschang Cliff Reconstruction
The government initiated reconstruction efforts in February following a landslide in November of the previous year that destroyed a section of the road and resulted in at least 12 fatalities.
While authorities considered alternative routes, local residents constructed a temporary bridge to bypass the damaged section, despite official prohibitions. Due to safety concerns, the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) demolished the temporary bridge. This has prompted protests from residents citing a lack of alternative roads.
Subsequently, the government contracted a firm to rebuild the affected stretch on the cliff to restore safe passage.