Lagos steps up traffic control to tame gridlocks

Reacting to heavy traffic that crippled parts of the state this week, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has begun moves to introduce traffic control measures with fresh directives issued to motorists.

General Manager of the agency, Bolaji Oreagba, reassured that traffic personnel were fully on ground to professionally and adequately manage traffic before, during and after the festive period.

Oreagba said: “All motorists are urged to maintain speed limits as they embark on their journeys into, within and outside Lagos.

“Entry and exit points into Lagos will be fully manned by our officers for adequate control and management of traffic. Major entry/exit roads in Lagos like, Lagos–Ibadan, Lagos-Abeokuta, Lagos–Badagry, Lekki-Epe Expressways and Lagos–Ikorodu–Sagamu Highway, would be adequately covered by our personnel for smooth and seamless traffic flow.

“Major road intersections are not left out in our strategy for coverage by our officers to ensure a traffic-free yuletide and ‘ember months’ end season for all Lagosians and visitors,” Oreagba added.

Though the contrary is currently the case in Lagos metropolis, Oreagba stated that LASTMA had put in place various arrangements to make the yuletide an enjoyable one by ensuring less travel-time through efficient and effective traffic management.

He added that LASTMA officers’ presence would be felt at all major road intersections along with regular and consistent patrols, especially along notorious traffic flashpoints.

“All road users must adhere strictly to the traffic law, at all times, not only to avoid accidents but to also prevent avoidable arrest and prosecution.

“Everybody prays to experience the joyous season, be alive to witness the season and even beyond the season. We must, therefore, be moderate in the celebration of the season. Do not drink and drive and don’t subject yourself and other road-users to danger on the road, as the law will not be spared in dealing with errant road-users, who want to infringe on other people’s right to safety,” he said.