The Nigerian government has unveiled plans to equip Lagos’ Third Mainland Bridge with closed-circuit television (CCTV) and solar lighting by June 2024 to enhance security and address erosion challenges. This announcement follows an inspection conducted by Minister of Works, David Umahi, at the project site managed by Julius Berger, covering Third Mainland Bridge, Iddo Bridge, and Carter Bridge.
Umahi expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the under-deck project, assuring stakeholders of intensified efforts to meet the project deadline despite potential obstacles posed by the forthcoming lagoon tide in June. The ongoing construction encompasses the completion of the bridge deck, installation of CCTV systems, observation facilities, and mitigation measures against erosion, partly attributed to illegal sand mining activities.
Highlighting the urgency of addressing erosion concerns, Umahi emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal sand mining on the structural integrity of the bridge piles. He disclosed plans to engage consultants in assessing and devising remedies for the erosion issues, in collaboration with Julius Berger and international partners.
Moreover, Umahi acknowledged the absence of solar lighting on Carter Bridge, one of the key connections between Lagos Island and the mainland. He assured stakeholders of similar upgrades for other bridges in Lagos and across Nigeria, within the constraints of budgetary allocations. The minister underscored the government’s commitment to ongoing rehabilitation efforts on various bridges nationwide, in alignment with directives from the president.
The proposed initiatives aim to bolster security and address environmental challenges on the Third Mainland Bridge, reflecting the government’s proactive approach to infrastructure management and public safety.
Credit: Businessday NG (Text Excluding Headline)
