November 05, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has appealed to motorists to use alternative routes to avert gridlock, as comprehensive repair on Adekunle ramps of Third Mainland Bridge begins on Monday.
Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, made the appeal on Sunday, while addressing a World Press Conference on the 11.8kms Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.
Kesha said the repairs would begin on November 6, and the Adekunle exit ramp would be closed to traffic from 9.00 a.m. for two weeks’ rehabilitation, after which work would move to other areas.
She said the Adekunle section of the Third Mainland Bridge had four ramps which had a convergence point, adding that, repair of all the ramps would be completed within five weeks.
“We are here to sensitise Lagosians on the forthcoming closure of Third Mainland Bridge tomorrow, Nov. 6. By 9.00 a.m. the two access ramps to Adekunle will be closed to traffic.
“What that means is that if you are coming from Iyana Oworo, you can go straight. And if you are heading for Lagos Island, the road is still free for you; that bridge is still free for you.
“You can use it straight to the Island, but peradventure you are going to Adekunle, you will not be able to do that if you are coming from Iyana Oworo”, she said.
The controller said motorists coming from Lagos-Ibadan Expressway/Toll Gate/Ogudu axis inwards Lagos Island would not be able to access Adekunle/Ebute-Metta from the Third Mainland Bridge.
Kesha, who urged the motorists to make use of alternative routes like Carter Bridge, Gbagada, Ikorodu Road, Ojota and Funsho Williams Avenue, to avoid congestion on the Third Mainland Bridge, assured that signages had already been placed at strategic locations, in addition to billboards, while traffic officials would be on ground to help motorists.
She further urged motorists and other road users to be patient and obey traffic rules and officials during the period of repairs.
Kesha reaffirmed earlier announcements on the scope of work announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, which included resurfacing of the entire bridge, replacement of expansion joints, solar lights installation, among others.
Giving assurances that all vandalised furniture on the highway, including guard rails would be replaced, Kesha appealed to the public to be vigilant to report vandals from destroying common assets.