KWAME NKRUMAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
KUMASI, GHANA (MAIN CAMPUS)
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF CIVILENGINEERING
ENGINEERING IN SOCIETY, CENG 291
POOR ROADS AT APOWA
NAME: ANYIMAH AUGUSTINE
INDEX NUMBER: 1699222
REFERENCE NUMBER: 20905932
NOVEMBER 2023
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First, I would like to thank God for his guidance in making this report a success.
I would also like to thank the college of Engineering including my supervisor, Dr. Helen Essandoh for the
opportunity as well as their contribution to this report.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my family and the people of Apowa whose
insights enriched this work.
ABSTRACT
The report gives a brief background to the course ENGINEERING IN SOCIETY (CENG 291). The report is
aimed at solving problems in the society.
This report investigates the issue of poor roads infrastructure at Apowa and analyzing it impact on the
people’s daily lives by identifying causes that has led to the current road condition.
The report Identifies problems such as potholes, erosion and many more. The report the report then
proposes a better way in solving the listed challenges by implementing sustainable road construction
technique.
Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.................................................................................................................................2
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................................3
TABLE OF FIGURE.........................................................................................................................................5
1.1.1 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................6
1.1 Background of course.................................................................................................................6
1.2 Aims and Objectives...................................................................................................................7
2.0 MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY.........................................................................................................7
2.1 Identification of the problem.............................................................................................................7
2.2 Preparation of map............................................................................................................................7
2.3 Collection of data...............................................................................................................................8
3.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION......................................................................................................................8
3.1 Description of my community...........................................................................................................8
3.2 Nature and characteristics of the roads...............................................................................................11
3.3 CAUSES OF POOR ROADS AND ROAD STRUCTURE..........................................................................14
3.4 NEGATIVE EFFECTS..........................................................................................................................14
4.0 CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ITS SUB-DISCIPLINES....................................................................................15
4.1 CIVIL ENGINEERING.........................................................................................................................15
4.2 SUB –DISCIPLINES OF CIVIL ENGINEERING.......................................................................................15
Structural Engineering.......................................................................................................................15
Water Resource Engineering.............................................................................................................15
Transportation Engineering...............................................................................................................15
Geotechnical Engineering..................................................................................................................15
Environmental Engineering...............................................................................................................15
5.0 SUGGESTED SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM USING CIVIL ENGINEERING...............................................16
CONCLUSION.............................................................................................................................................20
RECOMMENDATION..................................................................................................................................20
TABLE OF FIGURE
Figure 2. Location of Ghana in Africa...........................................................................................................9
Figure 3. Map of Apowa............................................................................................................................10
Figure 3.2 showing the state of roads in Apowa........................................................................................11
Figure 3.3 showing erosion in roads..........................................................................................................12
Figure 3.4 showing no drainage system....................................................................................................13
1.1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of course
Engineering in society ‘CENG 291’ is a two credit hours course that equip engineering student to apply
knowledge acquired in their field of study to solve social problems. This course was brought into the
College of Engineering of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology to instill in all
second year engineering students this course was introduced by the then provost of the college of
engineering, Professor S.I.K Ampadu in the 2012/2013 academic year.
1.2 Aims and Objectives
The main objective of this project is to identify the cause(s), the effect of the problem suggest an
approach to the problem. However, the solution must be derived from the application of civil
engineering knowledge.
In addition, the solution outlined on my knowledge of Civil Engineering will help to:
Cultivate a great commitment and passion for effective problem- solving.
Intensify my interest and appreciation for the various engineering disciplines that am engaged
in.
2.0 MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY
2.1 Identification of the problem
I accessed the community in search of the most pressing issue, which have left the community in havoc.
Through my findings, I noticed that most of the roads in Apowa was in a very bad condition. The roads
either lacked drainage systems or had drains but in a very terrible state with many more key challenges.
Interrogations were made in Apowa to determine the people’s views and knowledge through
questionnaires
2.2 Preparation of map
With the help of google earth, I was able to locate and download an approximate map of my community
(Apowa)
2.3 Collection of data
In order to gather insights into the proposed challenge, I employed a systematic methodology involving
the use of questionnaires. This questionnaire was crafted carefully to extract detailed responses from
relatives and residents of Apowa.
3.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
3.1 Description of my community
Apowa is located in the region of WESTERN. Western’s capital Sekondi-Takoradi is approximately
7.8km/4.8 mi away from Apowa as the crow flies. Apowa is bounded to the west by Funko and on the
East by Apremdo. Some notable place in Apowa is the St. Mary’s Boys school. Below is a map of Apowa
via satellite.
Figure 2. Location of Ghana in Africa.
Figure 3. Map of Apowa.
3.2 Nature and characteristics of the roads.
The nature of the roads at Apowa lacks proper engineering plans. The whole road is untarred and
covered with potholes and it really gets worse when there is massive downpour especially during the
rainy seasons. During this moment, the rain washes the top soil from the road and gradually erosion
occurs the rains are collected into holes and pools making potholes. This has destroyed the road
massively and has slowed the down the movement of the people since they cannot perform their daily
activities at it maximum and as a result, causes productivity to reduce. The figures below shows the
nature and state of roads at Apowa.
Figure 3.2 showing the state of roads in Apowa
Figure 3.3 showing erosion in roads
Figure 3.4 showing no drainage system
3.3 CAUSES OF POOR ROADS AND ROAD STRUCTURE
1. Lack of proper drainage system: some of the roads do not have drainage system and the ones that are
available have been choked up by the residents with rubbish from their place of abode and place of
work. In addition, when there is a heavy downpour it causes flood, which gradually creates holes in the
road leading to the roads destruction.
2. Heavy duty vehicles: the roads in my community joins two important class of roads together hence, is
been used as a by-pass in order to avoid delays. Since the vehicles that uses our roads are heavy vehicles
from companies and industrial area closer to Apowa with time the roads are destroyed. This is because
the strength of the road cannot bear the masses from these vehicles.
3. Low quality materials used in roads and drains construction: inappropriate use of materials in both
quality and quantity has led to the faster destruction of the roads
3.4 NEGATIVE EFFECTS
Air pollution
Results in road accident
Transportation delays
Increases government expenditure
Vehicles are damaged
‘
4.0 CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ITS SUB-DISCIPLINES
4.1 CIVIL ENGINEERING
Civil engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of
infrastructure projects. This field includes, a wide range of structures, including buildings, roads, dams
and more. Civil engineering plays a crucial role in ensuring the functionality, safety, and sustainability of
these projects.
The field is dynamic, evolving with advancements in technology and a perfect emphasis on durable
design.
4.2 SUB –DISCIPLINES OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
Structural Engineering
This is a sub discipline of civil engineering, which focuses on designing and analyzing structures to ensure
they can withstand forces and loads.
Water Resource Engineering
Water resource engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering that concentrates on the
sustainable management of water resources. This field addresses the planning, development, and
management of water related projects for example, dams, reservoirs and many more.
Transportation Engineering
This sub discipline of civil engineering focuses on the planning, designing and operation of
transportation systems. This includes roads, highways, railways, airports and other infrastructure that
facilitates the movement of people and goods. The transportation engineers aim to create efficient and
safe systems to address the growing demands of mobility.
Geotechnical Engineering
This is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on understanding and managing the behavior of earth
materials, such as soil and rock. In the context of construction projects.
Environmental Engineering
This is a specialized field within civil engineering. This sub-discipline of civil engineering entails applying
scientific and engineering principles to safeguard and improve the environment.
5.0 SUGGESTED SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM USING CIVIL
ENGINEERING
The problem of the poor roads in Apowa can be solved by implementing a comprehensive maintenance
plan, including regular inspections, timely repairs, and the use of durable and the use of durable
materials to enhance longevity.
Also, another solution to address is the introduction of proper drainage systems, efficient drainage
prevents water accumulation which is a major contributor to road deterioration.
Road construction is therefore the process of planning, designing, and executing the construction,
repair, or expansion of roadways to facilitate safe and efficient transportation.
Road construction typically involves several phases:
1. Initial Planning:
In commencing the actual construction, new road projects require meticulous planning and
thorough consideration. The initial phase entails determining the project concept, identifying
funding sources, and conducting preliminary engineering assessments. During this stage
planners and stakeholders must justify the necessity of the project, enabling the formation of a
budget and the procurement of funding. It is only after these essential steps that the process
advances to the road design stage.
2. Demolition and Removal:
Before any part of the new road can be laid out, the existing road or other obstructions must be
removed, demolished, and cleaned out to make way for the new construction
3. Ground leveling:
To attain the desired slopes and uniformity, the terrain must undergo leveling and grading
processes.
4. The sub base is layed out:
This stratum serves as a robust foundation, capable of sustaining the upcoming pavement.
Additionally, it functions as a shield against frost, preventing direct exposure to cold ground
temperatures. Without this protective layer, the asphalt could be susceptible to damage caused
by freezing and thawing.
5. The binder layer is poured on:
In this stage, substantial aggregate material is blended with oil, creating a robust and enduring
binder layer. This binder is essential as it furnishes the requisite structural support for the
subsequent asphalt layer.
6. The asphalt is applied:
This can be thought of as the final layer of the road, the asphalt layer gives a road its smooth
and clean finish. This asphalt is made up of small aggregate, sand and oil.
7. Transitions are made between the new road and existing roads:
Transition ways must be constructed between the new road construction and all of its
connecting roads, parking lots and driveways. These transitions can be tricky, but they are
important. Unnecessary bumps between the newly constructed road and existing roadways can
prove hazardous if enough care is not taken during this stage.
8. The final role:
Ultimately, once all other construction activities are completed, a final pass is made across the
entire roadway. This crucial step aims to compress and level any protruding pieces of aggregate
within blacktop. This meticulous process guarantees that the freshly paved road achieves
optimal smoothness.
CONCLUSION
After thorough investigation, it became evident that the Apowa community revolves around poor road
network. Contributing factors include the absence of a proper drainage system. The repercussions of
these subpar roads extend to vehicle damage, increased risk of road accidents, respiratory ailments due
to air pollution, and disruptions in the timely transportation of people and goods. To address a solution
was implemented by paving previously untarred roads and constructing new ones to replace those
marred by potholes.
RECOMMENDATION
1. I recommend that, high-quality materials are used during the construction of new roads to
ensure their long-term durability.
2. Additionally, raising funds through road tolls is recommended to facilitate prompt repairs in case
of any faults, mitigating potential issues on the roads.
REFRENCES
https://ghana.places-in-the-world.com/2304305-place-apowa.html
https://redstone-cg.com/what-are-the-steps-in-a-road-construction-project/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apowa,_Ghana
APPENDICES
1. SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE
ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS
1. Gender
Male
Female
2. Age
10-30
30-70
3. Marital status
Single
Married
4. Level of education
5. Occupation
6. Do you live in Apowa?
Yes
No
7. What do you think is the major problem in Apowa?
8. Indicate possible causes for the problem stated.
9. Indicate some effects of the problem stated.
10. Suggest solutions to the problem
LETTER OF INTRODUCTION
