KARA BRIDGE REPAIRS TRIGGER SEVERE GRIDLOCK ON LAGOS-IBADAN EXPRESSWAY

Motorists travelling along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway have been confronted with severe traffic congestion following the commencement of repair works on the Kara Bridge. The intervention, which began on September 8, has significantly affected traffic movement on one of the busiest routes linking Lagos with Ogun State and other parts of the South-West. Authorities had earlier warned motorists to expect delays and make alternative travel arrangements.

The repairs are being carried out on the expansion joints of the bridge, which have exceeded their expected service life and require replacement. Under the traffic management arrangement, work is being undertaken in phases, with one side of the carriageway affected at a time while traffic is managed on the available section. The authorities have deployed traffic management and security agencies to help control the situation and reduce the impact on commuters.

The development has nevertheless resulted in lengthy queues, with motorists spending significantly more time on the expressway. The Kara corridor is particularly sensitive because of the volume of vehicles that use the route daily, including commuters travelling between Lagos and Ogun, commercial vehicles, trucks and motorists heading towards other parts of the country. Residents in nearby communities have also been advised to anticipate increased traffic around connecting roads.

Motorists have been encouraged to plan their journeys carefully and consider alternative routes where possible. Some of the suggested alternatives include routes through Ogijo and Ikorodu, as well as the Sango-Abeokuta axis, depending on the traveller's destination. Traffic authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation and adjusting the diversion arrangements as the repair progresses.

The Kara Bridge intervention is expected to last about two weeks, according to the traffic advisory surrounding the project. Authorities have stressed that the repairs are necessary to address the deteriorating expansion joints and improve safety on the bridge. While the work is expected to cause temporary disruption, commuters are being urged to exercise patience, follow traffic directions and avoid unnecessary trips through the affected corridor during peak periods.