Kara Bridge repairs trigger heavy traffic on Lagos-Ibadan expressway

The repair work on the Kara Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has triggered heavy traffic gridlock for motorists heading outbound from Lagos.

The rehabilitation, which involves replacing damaged expansion joints on the outbound section, commenced on Tuesday morning after it was previously suspended following the completion of the first phase.

Motorists said the traffic built up significantly, stretching back towards the Otedola Bridge area.

Layi Komolafe, federal controller of works in Ogun state, said in a statement that the intervention is essential for road safety and durability.

The federal ministry of works had earlier issued a travel advisory urging motorists to plan trips in advance, obey traffic directives, and consider alternative routes to minimise delays.

Operatives from agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos state police command, and Lagos State Transport Management Agency (LASTMA) have been mobilised to manage flow around the work zone.

The repairs, supervised by the federal ministry of works, are expected to take between six weeks and two months to complete, with some sections requiring extended time for proper sealing.

The current phase is expected to last about two weeks, ending around March 24, and will involve partial road narrowing and traffic diversion on the outbound lane from Lagos.

Motorists travelling from Ikorodu to Mowe, Sagamu, or Ibadan have been advised to divert through the Shimawa or Mosinmi routes.

Those coming from Lagos Island are advised to take the Epe corridor through Ijebu Ode to access Sagamu, Ibadan, or Mowe. (The cable)