Enugu – The Enugu State Government says the collapsed New Artisan bridge along the Enugu- Port Harcourt expressway will no longer be opened for public use this holiday period as earlier announced.
The earlier announced that one lane of the expressway at the collapsed bridge near Artisan Cattle Market would be opened for pubic use by 24th December, 2023.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State had on November 9, announced that the Federal Government would commence reconstruction work on the collapsed bridge.
However, Aka Eze Aka, the Commissioner for Information and Communication in a statement issued on Monday said the road shall no longer be opened for public use as earlier announced until work is completed. According to him, the project manager, Mohammed Fadi had advised that the project be allowed to be completed and subjected to series of test even after completion, to certify it fit for public use.
Due to the traffic congestion being experienced in the area which is a major link road the state government had asked that one lane of the bridge that was standing be opened to ease traffic flow and relief motorists of stress especially this festive season. This however is no longer feasible because of expert and technical advice.
As a matter of emphasis the government is not unaware of the difficulties created by the collapsed bridge but appeals for understanding and patience from users of the road.
The bridge is currently being reconstructed by the Federal Ministry of Works.
