Road Closure Chaos: Afikpo Road Access Cut Off Amid Construction

DDM News

In a move aimed at improving Ebonyi State’s transportation infrastructure, the state governor has announced the construction of a new flyover.

The project is expected to ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity in the region.

However, it has been met with widespread apprehension from residents.

Concerns stem primarily from the immediate and long-term disruptions the project poses to daily life, property, and businesses.

A Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) correspondent from Enugu, Gift Obianuju, gathered that the proposed flyover will necessitate the demolition of numerous residential and commercial properties.

These structures, many of which represent lifelong investments and carry sentimental value, have left their owners in a state of distress.

The government has promised compensation to the affected individuals.

However, skepticism surrounds the adequacy of these payments.

Many residents fear that the amounts being offered will fail to reflect the true market value of their properties.

This has left them worried about their ability to rebuild or relocate adequately.

Obianuju’s report also highlighted the lack of transparency in the compensation process.

This has further compounded the anxiety among those set to lose their homes and livelihoods.

Another pressing issue is the disruption caused by the closure of the direct road linking Water Works to Afikpo Road.

This road served as a vital artery for commuters.

Its sudden inaccessibility has forced drivers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians to seek alternative paths.

This has resulted in longer travel times and significantly higher transportation costs.

Before the road was blocked, commuters paid an average fare of 300 naira for trips from Afikpo Road to Awka Street off Ojeowere.

That fare has now more than doubled to 700 naira due to the circuitous routes drivers must now take.

The hike in transportation costs has disproportionately affected low-income earners.

Many of them are struggling to cope with the increased financial burden.

What has particularly angered residents is the apparent lack of preparation before the construction began.

Despite the clear impact on traffic flow, no alternative route was planned or developed to accommodate the displaced traffic.

This oversight has created gridlocks and chaos on neighboring streets.

It has also worsened the situation for motorists and local businesses alike.

Many residents and community leaders are calling on the government to urgently construct a temporary road to ease congestion.

They believe this would help restore a semblance of normalcy during the project’s duration.

Furthermore, roads now being used as alternative routes are in deplorable condition.

These roads are riddled with potholes and eroded sections.

They are ill-equipped to handle the sudden influx of traffic.

Residents have called on the government to allocate resources for immediate repairs.

They argue that this will ensure these routes are safe and functional for all users.

The lack of maintenance has also led to an increase in vehicular breakdowns and accidents.

This has exacerbated frustrations among commuters.

While the flyover project promises to bring long-term benefits such as improved traffic management and regional connectivity, the government must address the immediate concerns of those affected.

Comprehensive planning is crucial to minimizing the disruptions caused by this ambitious infrastructure project.

This includes fair and timely compensation, the establishment of alternative routes, and the rehabilitation of existing roads.

By balancing the need for development with the well-being of its citizens, the government can demonstrate a commitment to both progress and community welfare.

Without these interventions, the flyover project risks becoming a source of prolonged hardship for the very people it seeks to serve.

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