By Olivia Ambrose, JKNewsMedia Intern
DELTA STATE’s Acting Governor, Monday Onyeme, on Thursday, expressed optimism that the ongoing struggles faced by motorists on the Benin-Onitsha Expressway will soon be resolved.
This comes as the state has begun remedial works on the failed portion of the Asaba-Onitsha axis of the federal road.
Onyeme inspected the damaged area and internal roads in Asaba, which have seen increased traffic due to the failed expressway.
During the assessment, Onyeme revealed that the contractor handling the road repairs assured him that one side of the dual carriageway would be fixed soon to ease traffic while awaiting the end of the rainy season.
He also highlighted how Asaba’s internal roads have deteriorated due to increased use by heavy-duty vehicles that diverted from the federal road.
The governor confirmed that plans are underway to repair the affected roads within the city.
Onyeme explained that the internal roads were not designed to handle the current volume of heavy trucks, but efforts will be made to fix the damaged sections.
He commended the Federal Government for responding to the calls for action and noted that workers have already been mobilized to the site.
The acting governor, alongside state officials, visited key areas, including Nnebisi Road, Dennis Osadebay Way, and Ibusa-Asaba Road.
They also inspected the Koka Interchange, where repairs on a dangerous spot have already commenced. Onyeme assured the public that the failed sections would be repaired promptly to restore normal traffic flow.
Regarding public calls to restrict heavy trucks from using internal roads, Onyeme stated that while the state will continue to manage the situation, a full restriction may have economic consequences.
He emphasized the need for a balanced approach, urging the Federal Government to expedite work on the expressway, as this would reduce the strain on local roads.
The acting governor was accompanied by key state officials, including Commissioner for Works (Urban Roads) Reuben Izeze, Commissioner for Information Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Director-General of the Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency Chief Patrick Ukah, and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Festus Ahon.
