The Minister of Railways Development, Hon. Joe Ghartey has disclosed that the 97km rail line eastern route from Tema to Mpakadan is 60% complete.

The percentage of completion, according to him, is based on the interim payment certificate that have been passed by the consultants of the project.

“They have passed 24 Interim payment certificate so far and the certificate is based on the work that have been done so far,” he said.

The Minister said government is working assiduously to ensure that the eastern rail line is completed to achieve its intended purpose.

Speaking on Eye on Port’s live interactive programme on Metro TV, he revealed each of the railway lines that are being constructed in the country are economically viable.

“When you are thinking development, you don’t think short term view. You don’t think for now,” he said.

Joe Ghartey who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan also assured workers of the Ghana Railway Company Limited who haven’t been paid for some months now that they will soon be paid.

“Ghana Railway Company Limited earns it money from manganese and what happened was that the manganese company didn’t operate for some time. Government is giving a cash injection which will cover all the company’s expenses up to next year March. The money will hit the account next week,” he assured.

He entreated workers of the company to always endeavour to give off their best in the discharge of their duties.

“It is not free money and I trust that they will respect government’s good intension for the sector and they will also improve their delivery and I have confidence in them,” he said.

The Minister revealed that several investors have expressed interest in the Aflao to Elubo rail line.

Joe Ghartey said the longest train in the world is run by Transnet in South Africa which is 4kilometers and added that the Ghana Railway Company Ltd, has signed a contract with Transnet to pull 50% of manganese through rail.

“So when we came (to power) we didn’t fall asleep, we entered into a contract with Ghana Manganese and said we will rehabilitate the narrow gauge line and use it to pull manganese. In December last year, Ghana Railway Company Limited signed a contract with Transnet to pull 50% of the manganese through rail,” he hinted.