Public Works Minister to Launch Reconstruction of Dschang Cliff

Reconstruction of the Dschang Cliff Crossing in the West Region is set to begin following a landslide that blocked the road and claimed 12 lives in November last year.

The Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Njoumessi, will officially launch the reconstruction works on Saturday, March 15, marking the start of efforts to restore the critical road link.

After the landslide, villagers had improvised by connecting the cliff with wooden planks. However, the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Menoua Division later ordered its destruction and closure, citing safety concerns.

The announcement revealed that they awarded a contract, and work will soon commence.

The Minister will oversee the start of the 367-meter reconstruction project four months after the disaster, shifting it 100 meters from the original 732-meter alignment.

A statement from the Ministry of Public Works on Thursday highlighted key features of the project.

“The technical option chosen for these works has the advantage of incorporating a drainage system, including drains and a hydraulic structure for managing rainwater and permanent water sources,” the statement read.

The ministry states that China First Highway Engineering Company will carry out the works, integrating technical advancements and technological innovations suited to the area’s soil conditions.

The project also includes the construction of a reinforced concrete retaining wall to enhance the stability of the infrastructure.

Other Key Road Projects

Aside from the Dschang Cliff, Minister Nganou Njoumessi will also conduct assessments of other major infrastructure projects.

He will supervise the reinforcement and maintenance works on National Road No. 3 (Yaoundé-Douala section), including the replacement of pipe culverts with box culverts.

He will also oversee the construction progress of an urban boulevard (3 x 2 lanes, 8.94 km), part of a 53.94-km-long carriageway at Douala’s eastern entrance; and ongoing works on National Road No. 5 (Douala-Bafoussam).