The Lagos State Government has pledged swift action to address the partial damage incurred by the Alapere Pedestrian Bridge last December following a collision with an overloaded truck.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure (Office of Infrastructure), the bridge was promptly closed for safety reasons, pending a comprehensive assessment of the damage. The incident occurred during a time when most construction companies, vital for preliminary investigations, were closed for the year.
The statement further elaborated, “The structural integrity tests could therefore not be conducted on what was left of the collapsed bridge until the resumption of most of these companies at the beginning of this year.”
Recent integrity tests yielded results, along with a preliminary redesign of the bridge to enhance safety measures, including increased headroom to 5.8 metres. Plans for the final design are underway, and the government anticipates the mobilisation of a nominated contractor to commence physical reconstruction soon.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains committed to prioritising pedestrian safety and ensuring ease of movement across critical infrastructure. Measures taken include creating access through median barriers, installing rumble strips to slow vehicle speeds, and deploying Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials for pedestrian assistance.
The statement emphasised the government’s stance on protecting lives and properties, stating, “The Lagos State Government will not stop placing a high premium on the lives and properties of its residents.”
Furthermore, the government vows to prosecute owners of trucks responsible for avoidable damage and insists they bear repair costs. Additionally, repairs and replacement of worn-out expansion joints on various bridges across the state have commenced, with Kodesoh Bridge in Ikeja receiving priority attention.
The administration, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, remains dedicated to ensuring smooth traffic flow across Lagos State, urging public cooperation and understanding towards this goal.
