Plan Ahead: Lagos warns drivers of heavy traffic as Kara bridge repairs begin

The Lagos State Government has warned motorists to prepare for traffic delays and slower movement on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as repair work on the Kara Bridge begins on Tuesday, July 28.

According to the state government, the Federal Ministry of Works will commence the replacement of the bridge’s expansion joint as part of efforts to improve the condition of the busy highway. The maintenance work is expected to last for two weeks.

To allow the repairs to take place safely, the four-lane carriageway will be reduced to two lanes along a 1.5-kilometre section of the bridge.

This temporary restriction is expected to affect the smooth flow of traffic, especially during peak travel periods when thousands of commuters use the route daily.

The government also warned that motorists could experience heavy congestion around the Fatgbems Turn as some drivers may attempt to make U-turns or use alternative routes to avoid the affected section of the expressway.

However, traffic moving towards Ibadan beyond the Fatgbems Turn is expected to flow with minimal disruption despite the ongoing construction work.

The Lagos State Government urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time and allow extra travel time to avoid unnecessary delays. Drivers were also advised to use alternative routes where possible, obey all traffic signs, and cooperate with officials who will be deployed to manage traffic throughout the repair period.

The government assured residents that traffic management personnel would be on the ground to ease congestion and ensure the safety of both motorists and construction workers.

It explained that the rehabilitation project is part of ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure, enhance the safety of road users, and extend the lifespan of the Kara Bridge.

The government appealed to the public for understanding, patience, and cooperation while the work is being carried out, noting that the temporary inconvenience will result in a safer and more durable bridge for all road users.