By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
The Tarlue Development Foundation (TDF) has issued an urgent appeal to the Ministry of Public Works, calling for immediate intervention to address the worsening condition of a key stretch of the Roberts International Airport (RIA) Highway beyond Duazon.
In a formal communication addressed to Public Works Minister Roland L. Giddings, the Foundation expressed deep concern over the state of the road, which it says continues to pose serious challenges to residents of Lower Margibi County and other commuters.
According to the Foundation, there has been little to no visible progress on the corridor since the start of the current dry season.
The affected stretch runs from Rock International School through the Transit Community to the EBK Barracks, an area that was heavily damaged during the last rainy season and has yet to receive adequate rehabilitation.
TDF Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Tarlue noted that the road’s deteriorating condition has led to frequent vehicle breakdowns, forcing motorists to incur high maintenance costs and placing additional strain on already struggling households.
Tarlue emphasized that the situation continues to generate growing concern among residents who rely on the route for daily economic and social activities.
“With another rainy season fast approaching, the need for urgent intervention cannot be overstated,” Tarlue said, stressing that failure to act promptly could further worsen conditions along the corridor.
The Foundation is specifically calling on the Ministry of Public Works to prioritize the pavement of the affected segment, arguing that such an intervention would significantly improve mobility and safety for commuters while longer-term rehabilitation plans for the entire highway continue.
While acknowledging the government’s competing priorities and resource constraints, TDF maintained that targeted action on the most affected portions of the road would provide immediate relief to residents and road users.
The RIA Highway remains one of Liberia’s most critical transport corridors, linking the capital, Monrovia, to the country’s main international gateway. Its condition has long been a concern for commuters, businesses, and transport operators who depend on the route for movement and commerce.
TDF CEO Tarlue has expressed optimism that its appeal would receive urgent attention from the government, particularly ahead of the impending rainy season, which traditionally worsens road conditions across the country.
