Delta State
EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a dramatic turn of events yesterday, travelers were left stranded near Ogwashi-Uku on the Ughelli/Asaba expressway as a bridge under construction by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) neared collapse.
The deteriorating condition of the bridge caused fear among those traveling from both Asaba and Ughelli ends, who were reluctant to cross over with their vehicles, fearing that they might be engulfed by the collapsing structure.
Hundreds of distressed travelers were observed resorting to alternative means of transportation, such as motorcycles and proceeding on foot, crossing the bridge with their luggage in tow to continue their journey. Many were forced to abandon their vehicles on the road.
To mitigate further risks, some commuters and vehicle owners opted for longer alternative routes, circumventing the troubled bridge altogether.
Site of the Bridge
In response to the imminent danger, the construction company, CCECC, made the difficult decision to close the road until further notice, fearing potential casualties.
The company is responsible for a section of the Ughelli-Asaba Road dualization project, including the ill-fated bridge.
Concerns have been raised regarding the slow progress of the bridge construction, as CCECC has been stationed at the site for over 10 months with minimal visible advancements.
An anonymous source within the company revealed that the sand used to cover the box culverts, crucial components of the bridge’s infrastructure, has been steadily eroded due to the area’s recent water overflow.
The closure of the road has undoubtedly caused significant disruptions to both local and long-distance travel. Travelers are now compelled to seek alternative routes and means of transportation, leading to delays and inconveniences for all those affected.
Efforts to rectify the bridge’s condition and reopen the road are expected to be undertaken swiftly by CCECC in collaboration with relevant authorities. However, until the necessary repairs are completed and the structural integrity of the bridge is ensured, travelers must exercise caution and follow official instructions regarding alternative routes.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and timely maintenance of critical infrastructure to prevent such disasters, emphasizing the need for enhanced oversight in future construction projects to ensure public safety and minimize travel disruptions.
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