The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that comprehensive rehabilitation of the 11.8-kilometer Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos will begin on November 1 and will last for three months.
Umahi made the announcement while inspecting the under deck, lagoon sections of the Third Mainland Bridge, and other bridges, on Saturday, October 28.
He said the entire stretch of the Third Mainland Bridge would undergo total resurfacing with minimal discomfort to road users, and the repairs would be carried out by midnight during the weekend. He stated that he inspected the top surface of the bridge on Friday before embarking on an inspection of the Lagoon portions.
He noted that patching various sections of the top surface of the bridge had led to undulating surfacing, saying it was not safe, hence the need to remove and relay the entire asphaltic covering.
Speaking further, the minister stated that the proposed maintenance of the Third Mainland Bridge was the first phase meant to secure the integrity as well as aesthetics of the upper deck components of the bridge. He explained that the maintenance of the aesthetics would include the replacement of the railings and the installation of solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras for optimal bridge security. He, however, assured that the three-month maintenance work would be without discomfort to motorists, saying, it would take place between midnight and 4.00 a.m. and during weekends.
He disclosed also that more than one contractor would be engaged due to the emergency nature of the work, which would end in Phase Four; which will entail the repairs of deflected slabs, bearings, piers, and pile caps.
He stressed that most bridges were about 60 years old and had outlived their design lifespan, hence the need for constant rehabilitation.
