Flood Cuts Off Residents, Commuters Of Agbarho/Ughelli Road In Delta State

Three days of heavy rainfall have caused severe flooding along parts of the Agbarho/Ughelli Road in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, disrupting movement and leaving commuters stranded.

The affected section, particularly around the Agbarho Police Station, was partly cut off by rising water, making passage difficult for motorists and other road users.

Several vehicles travelling from Effurun and Agbarho towards Ughelli were forced to make detours after floodwater covered part of the road.

A commuter, Francis Sadhere, said the situation made movement difficult.

“We were stranded. The depth of the water was much, and the difficulty of getting through was not an easy one,” he said.

Another road user, who identified himself simply as Tony, appealed to the relevant authorities to address the flooding and improve drainage along the affected section.

When the road was visited, the affected section remained largely impassable, although traffic had begun moving slowly through the flooded portion.

Residents and commuters expressed concern that further rainfall could worsen the situation, calling for urgent measures to drain the affected areas and prevent a recurrence.

According to Vanguard, they appealed to the Delta State Government, the Federal Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission to intervene and repair the damaged section.

Meanwhile, commuters and residents in Ughelli have called on Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to urgently maintain and improve alternative roads around the Otovwodo axis as traffic congestion continues to disrupt movement.

The appeal comes amid increasing pressure on the road network due to the ongoing construction of the Otovwodo flyover.

Residents said the condition of some alternative routes had worsened traffic congestion, forcing motorists to spend longer periods on the road.

Commercial drivers also complained of increased vehicle damage and fuel consumption, while passengers said prolonged delays were affecting their work, businesses and other daily activities.

A commuter, Bernard Ewofurama, said the situation had become increasingly frustrating, particularly during weekends.

“The traffic is getting worse, especially during weekends.

“If the alternative roads are properly maintained, it will make vehicle movements easier and reduce the sufferings,” he said.

Another resident, Choice Grandball, called for urgent repairs on damaged sections of the alternative routes.

“We are not asking for anything extraordinary. If the deplorable points in the alternative roads are maintained and kept in good condition, motorists will not suffer that much.

“That will reduce the pressure and make movement easier for everyone,” he said.

Mrs Faith Iguruwe also appealed to Julius Berger to improve the condition of the alternative routes.

“We commend the state government for awarding this project, however Julius Berger should be able to put the alternate roads in good bearing to ease the suffering of the people, otherwise that is negligence,” she said.

She said commuters experienced severe delays over the weekend, with some people spending more than two hours trying to get home because of damaged entry points to the alternative roads.

Residents said regular maintenance of the alternative routes would provide relief while construction of the Otovwodo flyover continues.

They also called for improved drainage, removal of roadside obstructions and regular monitoring of the routes to prevent further deterioration.

The commuters urged Julius Berger, relevant government agencies and community stakeholders to work together on traffic management and ensure that routine grading, drainage maintenance and repairs are carried out before the alternative roads become impassable.(SaharaReporters)