Federal Ministry Embarks on Benin-Sagamu Expressway Flood Damage Assessment

Following the recent heavy downpour that caused disruptions on certain sections of the Benin-Sagamu Expressway, the Federal Ministry of Works has initiated an assessment of the flood-affected areas. The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, disclosed this information on Monday during an inspection of the affected sections at the Ore corridor in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State. Umahi, who was represented by the Federal Controller of Works in Ondo State, Engr Olajide Hussein, identified three key locations along the Ondo section of the expressway as being prone to flooding. These locations include Agofure at Km 100, Adolak Junction near Ore Flyover Bridge at Km 107, and the Agric Section at Km 117. The minister stated that the ministry is proposing targeted engineering interventions at these locations to prevent future flooding and enhance safety along the highway. According to Umahi, the recent intense rainfall has resulted in flooding in several communities and road corridors across the country, prompting the ministry to commence a technical evaluation to address the challenge. The minister explained that the ministry is currently examining the causes of the overflow through hydraulic evaluation of existing culverts and drainage channels. 'The recent intense precipitation across the country has caused widespread flooding in various communities and along major road corridors, a phenomenon widely attributed to ongoing climate change impacts. We are currently tracing the sources of the overflow to implement proactive solutions, including the potential resizing of cross-culverts and desilting blocked channels,' the minister said. Umahi assured road users that the ministry is committed to ensuring the safety and stability of the expressway, adding that all necessary technical steps are being taken swiftly to enhance drainage capacity, mitigate the impact of unprecedented storm runoff, and ensure safe, uninterrupted passage along this highway. The minister also expressed sympathy to commuters and residents affected by the flood.