24-Hour Third Mainland Bridge Closure: FG Reveals Alternate Routes

The Federal Government has announced a 24-hour closure of the Third Mainland Bridge to vehicular traffic, scheduled to take place from Saturday, October 21, 2023, to Sunday, October 22, 2023, as part of necessary repair work. This announcement was made by the Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Engr O. I. Kesha, in a statement issued on Thursday.

This move is in response to mounting concerns raised by motorists and the general public regarding the deteriorating state of the Third Mainland Bridge, which has become increasingly burdened with potholes and significant bumps.

In a concerted effort to address the pressing issues and alleviate the difficulties faced by commuters on this vital bridge, the government has decided to undertake palliative measures on the most critically damaged sections along the Adeniji bound carriageway on Sunday, October 22, 2023, as a preliminary step before embarking on more comprehensive repair works.

Engr O. I. Kesha emphasized the need for cooperation from the motoring public during this period. He urged motorists to adhere to traffic diversions and follow the instructions provided by traffic management officials diligently. Additionally, he encouraged drivers to explore alternative routes wherever possible as the Adeniji bound carriageway of the Third Mainland Bridge will be closed to traffic from Saturday, October 21, 2023, until Sunday, October 22, 2023, at 12 midnight.

As an alternative for commuters, the following routes have been recommended for use during the period when the Adeniji bound carriageway will be inaccessible:

1. Motorists traveling from the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the Alapere/Ogudu axis heading towards Lagos Island will be redirected towards the Gbagada-Oshodi expressway, where they can connect to Ikorodu Road and Funsho Williams Avenue, allowing access to the Eko Bridge and Lagos Island.

2. For those on Lagos mainland who usually utilize Herbert Macaulay Road (Adekunle axis) to reach Lagos Island via the Third Mainland Bridge, the diversion will lead them to Muritala Mohammed Way, offering access to Carter Bridge and a route to Lagos Island.

3. It is important to note that the vast expanse of the Lagos lagoon plays a significant role in linking different parts of the metropolis. As such, water transportation is a viable and efficient alternative. It provides speed, convenience, and safety. Motorists may consider using the Jetty system to facilitate their journeys during this period.

The decision to close the Third Mainland Bridge temporarily for repairs is a response to the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which has raised concerns about safety and the overall quality of transportation along this critical route in Lagos. The closure, though disruptive, is a necessary step to address these concerns and ensure the long-term integrity of this vital transportation link.

The Third Mainland Bridge is one of the major bridges connecting the Lagos mainland to the island, and it plays a pivotal role in the daily commutes of thousands of residents. However, over time, it has suffered from the effects of wear and tear, exacerbated by the heavy traffic it handles on a daily basis. The repair work, though it might cause some inconvenience during the closure, is a crucial part of the government’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading critical infrastructure to meet the growing demands of a bustling metropolis.

It is important for the motoring public to understand that these repairs and the subsequent closure are part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and functionality of the Third Mainland Bridge for the long term. The government is striving to address the immediate concerns with the palliative measures while preparing for a more comprehensive repair project. Motorists are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly during this period and make use of the recommended alternative routes and transportation options to minimize disruptions to their daily routines.

While the closure may cause temporary inconvenience, it is a proactive step taken by the government to secure the structural integrity of the bridge and enhance road safety for all commuters. It is in the best interest of everyone to cooperate with the relevant authorities and adhere to the specified traffic diversions to ensure a smooth and efficient transition during the repair work. The ultimate goal is to provide a safer and more reliable transportation network for the residents of Lagos.