After a series of testing and evaluation of Festac link bridge, Lagos State government through the State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has announced an immediate closure of the flyover which was burnt recently.
The closure, according to a statement, was as a result of expert’s advice by the state Ministry of Works and Infrastructure that the integrity of a section of the bridge was in doubt, and therefore needed to be closed down for repairs.
The LASTMA General Manager, Mr Olawale Musa, said the precautionary decision was taken in order to save lives and property of motorists and other users of the Amuwo Odofin-Festac Link Bridge.
The bridge got burnt a few weeks ago when a fully loaded tanker upturned and spilled its content which led to fire outbreak.
“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority wishes to inform motorists inward and outward of FESTAC Town using the link bridge that they would now be restricted to one section of the bridge for safety and easy movement of vehicles,” Musa said.
Musa, who spoke after carrying out an on-the-spot assessment of the flow of traffic in the area, said the closure of a section of the bridge for repairs would not necessary lead to gridlock and hardship in the axis.
He promised that adequate arrangement had been made to minimise the impact on connectivity.
Already, Musa said the agency had commenced earnest mobilisation of men and materials to the area in order to ensure free flow of traffic.
The GM said the visit was to enable him take a critical look on the area with a view to mapping out the best traffic management and control strategy that would reduce the negative impact of the closure on motorists and commuters.
He said: “We like to assure motorists and residents that more men and materials have been deployed to the axis. To this end, we urge residents of the area, especially motorists and commuters to exercise patience and cooperate with the traffic officials for traffic to flow within the period.”
Musa also promised that no stone would be left unturned for residents and motorists of Amuwo Odofin, Festac Town and adjourning communities to enjoy seamless traffic during Yuletide and beyond.
