Warri:The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Warri Branch, has urged the redesign and reconstruction of a bridge at the failed section of the East-West Road in Agbarho, Delta State. This call comes after a section of the road collapsed due to heavy rainfall.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the road’s collapse on Monday was triggered by torrential rainfall that began on Sunday. This incident rendered the busy corridor impassable, forcing motorists and commuters to find alternative routes or walk through the affected area.
Mrs. Queen Chigbo, Chairman of the NSE Warri Branch, conducted an assessment of the site with team members and expressed concern about the inadequate culvert. She noted that the current culvert could not handle the volume of water and debris, contributing to the flooding and collapse.
Chigbo emphasized the need for a complete redesign and the construction of a proper bridge to prevent future incidents. The heavy rainfall caused the road to cave in, leaving both lanes unmotorable, although one lane has been temporarily reinforced to facilitate movement.
She also commended Mrs. Stella Okotete, Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank, and the Delta State Government for their prompt response to the situation. Accompanying Chigbo were NSE members Mr. Joseph Eghwrudje, Mr. Cyprian Ekeleme, Mr. Charles Ehizogie, Dr. Akpe Akpoteheri, and Mr. Emmanuel Mudi.