Kara Bridge Repairs: First Phase Completed as Traffic Eases on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
Kara Bridge Repairs: First Phase Completed as Traffic Eases on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
LAGOS — There was some relief for motorists on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Wednesday as the first phase of repair works on the Kara Bridge was completed.
The development came after motorists faced hours of traffic congestion on Tuesday following the partial closure of the bridge for the ongoing rehabilitation.
The repairs, being carried out by the Federal Ministry of Works, involve the replacement of damaged expansion joints on the bridge, which authorities said had deteriorated and posed safety risks to motorists.
Although traffic movement improved slightly on Wednesday, motorists were still experiencing delays around the Kara axis as available lanes remained restricted.
The Acting Controller of Works in Ogun State, Richard Adeleye, said the first section of the bridge had been completed despite the difficult working conditions.
He explained that the repair was being carried out in phases to minimise disruption and allow traffic to move while construction continued.
According to Adeleye, the damaged expansion joints had contributed to accidents on the bridge, making the repairs necessary despite the temporary inconvenience to road users.
He said workers would proceed with the remaining section before moving to the other side of the bridge.
However, rainfall disrupted part of the work on Wednesday, forcing workers to suspend some concrete and stone activities. Work on the expansion joint continued where possible.
Traffic authorities also reported that only two lanes were available for motorists heading towards the OPIC Turning, causing vehicles from the Secretariat direction to merge into fewer lanes before reaching the bridge.
The traffic pressure also affected areas around New Garage, with traffic lights being used to regulate vehicles approaching from Isheri-Olowora and River Valley and those coming from Otedola Bridge.
The Federal Road Safety Corps, police, LASTMA and other traffic management agencies were deployed around the corridor to control movement and reduce congestion.
Adeleye advised motorists to remain patient and consider alternative routes, including the Ogijo and Ikorodu corridors, where traffic was reportedly lighter.
The Lagos State Government had earlier warned motorists to expect delays during the two-week rehabilitation exercise and advised them to plan their journeys before travelling through the affected corridor.
The repair project is expected to improve the safety and durability of the Kara Bridge by replacing deteriorating expansion joints.
Authorities have assured motorists that the intervention is expected to be completed within the scheduled two-week period, barring unforeseen circumstances.
The concrete used for the repairs is expected to attain the required strength within five to seven days before the repaired section can be reopened to traffic.
