Works minister, Works Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi emphasized that unauthorized access to the site is not only delaying progress but also posing serious safety risks.
The Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi has urged unauthorized individuals to avoid accessing the Dschang Cliff in the West Region where reconstruction works are presently unfolding. The member of government has stated that unauthorized access to the site is not only delaying progress with the reconstruction but also posing serious safety risks. He made the statement during a recent inspection visit at the site last Friday. Minister Nganou Djoumessi in the course of the visit expressed grave concern, issuing firm warning to the public to avoid the collapsed section of the cliff.
He expressed concern over the persistent presence of unauthorized vehicles and pedestrians in the construction zone, stressing that the temporary diversion route established for the project is strictly reserved for construction vehicles and monitoring teams. “The use of this bypass by unauthorized individuals compromises both the efficiency of the work and public safety,” the Minister stated. The ongoing reconstruction work at the site began in February this year but has faced challenges in what the Works Minister has blamed on local residents’ continuous attempt to access the area despite official restrictions. Earlier this year, residents constructed a makeshift bridge to bypass the damaged road, defying government warnings.
The local administration later demolished the structure, citing safety concerns, which led to protests from residents frustrated by the lack of alternative routes. Minister Nganou Djoumessi reiterated that the unstable geotechnical conditions at the site require strict adherence to safety protocols. Warning signs have been posted around the perimeter, and authorities are enforcing access restrictions to prevent accidents. The member of government called for public cooperation, urging citizens to respect the closure and avoid the construction zone until the project is completed.
The government has not yet provided a timeline for the project’s completion but assured that compliance with safety measures will help expedite the reconstruction process. The Ministry of Public Works, the minister said, remains committed to restoring safe passage while prioritizing the safety of both workers and the public. He said authorities continue to monitor the site closely and have warned that violations of the access restrictions will not be tolerated. The public is reminded to follow official directives and use designated alternative routes until the Dschang Cliff road is fully restored.
