As part of the ember months programme, the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has announced removal of barricades on Abuja- Kaduna-Kano highways to allow free traffic flow for motorists flying the routes during the festive period.
Engr Folorunso Esan, Director Highways Construction and Rehabilitation in the Ministry made this announcement in Zaria during an inspection visit of the ongoing work, Wednesday as contained in statement released by the Ministry.
“This is part of our Ember Months programme, there was a directive by the Minister that all barriers at road construction sites where major works have been completed be removed by 15th of December to allow for free movement this season” he said
Engr Esan stated that he was on the visit to specifically make the pronouncement for the removal of the barricades and opening of diversions as directed by the Honourable Minister.
Accordingly, he explained that the the usual gridlock mototists experienced during festive season necessitated the directive to the Contractors to remove barriers on the sections where major work has been completed and close for end of year break to resume early in January.
In the same vein, the Federal Controller of Works, Federal Capital Territory, Engr Yakub Usman stated that, sequel to the directive of the Honourable Minister, palliative repairs and patching of potholes are ongoing at both Abuja and Kaduna end of the highway.
“Palliative work are ongoing. Barrier cannot be removed in the works zones yet to be completed. However, the Contractor has been directed to carry out repair works on all the diversions as part of the palliative repairs” Engr Usman said
Engr Usman revealed that the Abuja -Kaduna section of the project has eight diversions, saying that they are collaborating with the Contractor and relevant agencies such as FRSC to address unforeseen emergencies for effective traffic control during the yuletide.
On his part the Supervising Project Controller of Zaria – Kano section of the highway, Engr Ibrahim said “We are opening up all the work zones where the works have attained binder course level. There is only one diversion left following the opening up of the work zones. Pothole patching is taking place at bad spots along the road”
He also stated that they are working closely with FRSC and Kano traffic agency KAROTA for effective traffic management during the season, adding that the Contractor has put in place a tow truck and pay loader to facilitate clearance operations as required.
Engr Esan was accompanied on the inspection by Director, Federal Highways, North -west, Engr Taiwo and the media team of the Ministry.