BY EMMA PETER, ABUJA
The Federal Government has disclosed that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is being constructed with reinforced concrete technology expected to give the road a lifespan of between 50 and 100 years.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, made this known while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing projects in Rivers State at the weekend.
Umahi said the adoption of reinforced concrete pavement was part of the government’s effort to develop highways capable of carrying heavy traffic while reducing the frequency and cost of maintenance.
He said the technology would provide a more durable pavement for the coastal corridor, particularly because of the volume of commercial and heavy-duty traffic expected on the route.
“We are talking of 50 to 100-year guarantee for reinforced concrete pavement, with low maintenance,” the minister said.
Giving an update on construction, Umahi said work on Section Two of the coastal highway, covering approximately 55 kilometres, was progressing, with the concrete pavement expected to be completed in November.
He explained, however, that some bridges and flyovers along the route would require additional time because of the complex engineering conditions around the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Deep Sea Port areas.
According to him, the structures are being designed to withstand the movement of heavy-duty trucks while also taking into consideration the soil conditions along the corridor.
The minister also addressed drainage concerns, saying measures were being incorporated into the project to improve the evacuation of stormwater and reduce flooding risks.
He said five-foot drainage channels were being constructed on both sides of the highway, while culverts would link the road’s drainage system with Lagos State channels leading towards the lagoon.
Umahi said the overall design of the highway takes into account the environmental and traffic pressures expected along the coastal route.
The Federal Ministry of Finance has similarly stated that the highway is being constructed with continuously reinforced concrete pavement designed to have a minimum lifespan of 50 years with minimal maintenance.
