By SEGUN GIWA

The Federal Ministry of Works has begun an assessment of flood-affected sections along the Benin-Sagamu Expressway following recent torrential rainfall that disrupted movement on parts of the highway.

The Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi stated this on Monday while inspecting the affected sections at the Ore corridor in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

According to Umahi, the three major flood-prone locations along the Ondo section of the expressway are; Agofure at Km 100, Adolak Junction near Ore Flyover Bridge at Km 107, and the Agric Section at Km 117.

He said the ministry was proposing targeted engineering interventions at the identified locations to prevent future flooding and improve safety along the highway.

Umahi, who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works in Ondo State, Engr Olajide Hussein, said the inspection was to identify flood-prone locations along major road corridors and find possible solutions.

The minister said the recent intense rainfall had resulted in flooding in several communities and road corridors across the country, adding that the ministry had commenced technical evaluation to address the challenge.

He disclosed that the ministry was currently examining the causes of the overflow through hydraulic evaluation of existing culverts and drainage channels.

“The recent intense precipitation across the country has caused widespread flooding in various communities and along major road corridors, a phenomenon widely attributed to ongoing climate change impacts.

“We are currently tracing the sources of the overflow to implement proactive solutions, including the potential resizing of cross-culverts and desilting blocked channels,” the minister said.

He assured road users that the ministry was committed to ensuring the safety and stability of the expressway.

“In light of increasing climate change impacts, all necessary technical steps are being taken swiftly to enhance drainage capacity, mitigate the impact of unprecedented storm runoff and ensure safe, uninterrupted passage along this highway,” Umahi said.

He also expressed the ministry’s sympathy to commuters and residents affected by the flood. (NAN)

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