From George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
The Imo State government is set to embark on massive road construction projects across the state as the rainy season recedes.
The state government has also assured Imo people that the Fly Over at Assumpta Roundabout will soon be completed.
The state Commissioner for Works, Barrister Ralph Nwosu, who disclosed at the weekend, said that the state government is set to embark on massive road construction projects across the state as the rainy season recedes.
He said that the Imo state government will prioritise the state’s financial and economic interests, ensuring that no zone will be left behind.
Nwosu announced the commencement of the Mgbe – Akokwa – Uga Road construction project with Craneburg Construction Company as the contractor.
He said, ” To address ecological considerations on the Mgbe/Akokwa/Uga road, thorough studies were conducted, and a well-planned construction strategy was developed. While the Imo State Government will continue the road, construction up to the border at Uga in Anambra State, the federal government will undertake remedial works at the erosion site at Umuchima Community in Ideato South. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the successful completion of the project and mitigate any environmental impact.
He also said, ” Asphalting has officially commenced in Orlu Town, stretching from Okporo Junction to Eziachi, near the newly built Government House annexe. Other major road contractors will soon be deployed to begin work on street roads throughout Orlu, aiming for the swift delivery of the Orlu Urban Renewal project.”
The Commissioner provided an update on the Assumpta Cathedral Roundabout Flyover as making progress, with the substructure and piers now completed while construction crews are currently launching the beams for the flyover. These initiatives, he said, underscore the state government’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents of Imo State.
On the Ihiagwa Road, the Commissioner announced that the bridge is nearing completion, which will facilitate the vital link to Obinze while ongoing drainage work aims to effectively channel floodwaters into the Otamiri River.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner said plans are in motion to address the Naze-Timber market road, recognized for its economic significance. He said that drainage systems have been completed on the road leading into Alaba Market in Owerri, with asphalting scheduled to take place immediately after the rainy season.
” The Imo State government is poised to accelerate work on the Avu-Adapalm road, aiming to quickly complete seven kilometres up to the Adapalm plantation in the first phase and in record time. This move is expected to alleviate the suffering of residents in the area. Additionally, the Umunyeali road leading to Akwakuma will receive attention in the future, having undergone exco deliberations. To address the issue of potholes within Owerri, the government has divided the work into sections to maximise results, with work already commenced in some areas and the same speed will be maintained in other areas.
He added, “Regarding Umuguma Road, the primary challenge is the absence of a suitable location to channel stormwater and flood, as the existing location is inadequate, and the area is fully built up, making it difficult to implement effective channelisation. This has led to persistent flooding and waterlogging on the road, causing inconvenience to residents and commuters. To address this issue, the government is exploring alternative solutions, including the construction of a new drainage system and the expansion of existing waterways. The government will continue to work tirelessly to address the challenges facing Umuguma Road and other areas.
The Commissioner assured that Okigwe town will not be neglected, as the state government will soon embark on a holistic urban renewal programme, encompassing all major roads in Okigwe urban. Moreover, the government is set to initiate new rounds of rural road constructions across local government areas, as a further demonstration of government commitment to enhancing infrastructure and improving the lives of Imo State citizens living in rural communities.