This is contained in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, in Enugu on Friday.
Nnaji said that given the deplorable condition of the roads, the administration of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has opted to carry out remedial work on the two federal roads in the interim while awaiting the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing.
He disclosed that the Enugu State Executive Council, conscious of the difficulties arising from the situation of the roads, set up a Technical Team to visit the axis with a view to identifying the critical failed sections.
“They are mandated to report findings for some palliative measures aimed at repairing the roads for safe passage, especially for tankers carrying petroleum products and articulated vehicles.
“If no intervention is given, it may negatively impact the availability of these essential products in the state and its environs,” Nnaji said.
The Commissioner added that the State Executive Council had directed that immediately after the rains fully recede, the state government would commence palliative measures.
He said the government would remove all trucks and other vehicles stuck on the road, and carry out remedial works where possible to give room for immediate passage of commuters and goods while awaiting the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing.
“The state government, therefore, appealed to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to urgently carry out maintenance works on the two major highways to safeguard the lives of the citizens and protect their livelihood in these tough economic times,” he said.
The Commissioner further revealed that repairs of the federal interstate highways were awarded to RCC and ARAB Contractors for total reconstruction, stating that work had not progressed on the roads as expected.
