Motorists using the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway will soon experience temporary traffic changes as the Federal Government begins repair work on the Kara Bridge.
The maintenance operation is expected to start on March 10 and will last for two weeks.
According to officials, the project will focus on fixing damaged expansion joints on the bridge. These repairs are considered necessary to maintain the safety and durability of the structure.
The Kara Bridge repair works were confirmed by the Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Mr. Olayiwola Komolafe. He explained that the work will be carried out on the outbound Lagos section of the bridge.
Specifically, the affected area is located between Chainage 5+350 and 6+115 along the expressway. Meanwhile, the repairs are expected to be completed on March 24.
However, road users have been warned that traffic movement will be affected during the repair period. A partial closure will be implemented on the affected section of the road.
As a result, vehicles travelling out of Lagos will experience reduced road width in that area. Consequently, motorists may encounter slower traffic during peak hours.
According to Komolafe, the repair work was ordered by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi. The ministry said the intervention became necessary after engineers identified faults in the bridge’s expansion joints.
These components play an important role in maintaining the strength and flexibility of bridges. When they become damaged, repairs must be carried out to prevent further structural issues.
Meanwhile, traffic diversion measures have been advised to help reduce congestion. Motorists are encouraged to consider alternative routes during the Kara Bridge repair works.
“Motorists travelling from Ikorodu to Mowe, Sagamu and Ibadan are advised to go through Shimawa or Mosinmi,” Komolafe said.
In addition, he suggested another route for travellers coming from Lagos Island.
“Those travelling from Lagos Island may explore the Epe corridor through Ijebu Ode to connect Sagamu, Ibadan and Mowe,” he advised.
However, the controller noted that shorter routes may not always save time. Traffic conditions may vary depending on the number of vehicles using those alternative roads.
Therefore, drivers are urged to remain patient and follow traffic management guidelines. Officials have assured that measures will be put in place to manage traffic flow during the maintenance period.
Furthermore, motorists have been encouraged to obey instructions from traffic officers working around the construction zone.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Works has emphasised that the project is part of ongoing efforts to maintain critical road infrastructure across the country.
