First Niger Bridge set to reopen soon – Federal controller News October
First Niger Bridge Set To Reopen Soon – Federal Controller
The First Niger Bridge linking Onitsha in Anambra State to Asaba in Delta State may be reopened before the end of this week, the Federal Ministry of Works has said.
The Federal Controller of Works, Anambra State Field Headquarters, Engr. Timothy Emenike, disclosed this on Wednesday during an interview with journalists while clarifying reports about the newly installed demarcation on the bridge.
Emenike said all major construction works have been completed, including road tarring, laying of asphalt, fixing of expansion bolts and other critical structural components. He said painting of the railings which started last week is ongoing and fixing of bolts for lighting poles is almost done.
Barring no unforeseen circumstances, the bridge may likely be reopened before the end of this week since all construction works have been completed,” he said.
Recall that the bridge, built in 1965, was closed to traffic from September 7 to 21 for emergency rehabilitation after vandalised structural components, including expansion-joint steelwork, bolts and nuts were discovered. The closure was extended by one week due to persistent rainfall.
Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who inspected the bridge on September 23, had said government would not be stampeded to reopen it until major structural works were completed. He disclosed that contractor SKECC had replaced vandalised bolts and manufactured a new specialised expansion joint.
The closure forced motorists to use the Second Niger Bridge, causing longer travel times and higher transport costs. Emenike dismissed claims that the new demarcation was being removed, explaining that openings were only created for emergency U-turns and for FRSC and security agencies.
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