LAGOS: 3rd Mainland bridge to be closed for 72-hours again

THE federal controller of works in Lagos, Kayode Popoola, has announced a three-day closure of the Third Mainland Bridge for another round of expansion joints replacement.

This is the second time, within the past two months, that  the bridge would be closed to traffic for 72 hours.

Popoola disclosed this while speaking with NAN on Wednesday.

He maintained that the  72-hour closure would take effect from the midnight of January 29, till 12am on February 1, 2021.

The controller of works had on December 22, 2020 announced  a 72-hour closure of the bridge from midnight of December 25, 2020.

He said the closure became necessary to enable contractors cast concrete on the expansion joints and prevent vibration of the bridge when opened for use.

The rehabilitation works done on the bridge are part of the periodic maintenance, which was also carried out in 2008, 2012 and 2018.

Popoola explained that construction works had reached the stage for casting concrete on three additional expansion joints, hence, the need to stop all movements on the bridge that could cause vibrations.

He said the 72-hour closure was to ensure that concrete casting sets properly.

He appealed for the understanding of Lagos residents, adding that such measure was necessary for the safety of road users.

“Messers Boroni Prono is planning to cast three number expansion joints on Saturday, 30th and Sunday, 31st,” Popoola said.

“This will require total closure of Third Mainland Bridge from 12 midnight of Friday 29th till midnight of Monday, 1st February, 2021.

“We are sorry for the inconveniences this may cause Lagosians.”he added.