Following its engagement by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC has commenced an extensive bridge rehabilitation programme in Lagos State.
The assignment which is designed to address years of severe structural deterioration in the critical infrastructures, focuses on addressing long-standing structural damage, particularly in underwater components impacted by marine corrosion, tidal forces, and sustained heavy traffic.
The top-notch engineering construction company which commenced construction works in January 2024, is targeting four key transport links that included the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, Iddo Bridge, and the Iddo Bridge Underpass.
At the Carter Bridge, rehabilitation works concentrated on degraded underwater sections and substructure elements to mitigate the effects of corrosion and tidal movement for which physical works were completed in January, and the project has now entered its close-out phase.
For the Third Mainland Bridge, engineers are carrying out structural repairs on critical components, including the deck soffit, piers, and underwater pile caps.
The project is currently about 80% physically complete, with only the monitoring phase outstanding just as this phase which was expected to last one year, is now in its third month.
Financially, approximately 60% of the budget has been allocated, with 21% of the total project value executed to date.
As at last week, no major construction work is outstanding on the bridge as the focus is entirely on performance validation. Essentially, the monitoring phase acts as a quality assurance and risk management step, ensuring that the extensive rehabilitation work translates into a safe, stable, and durable bridge for years to come, said a member of the project team, Friday.
Similarly, the Iddo Bridge rehabilitation involves a more intensive reconstruction due to severe deterioration. Significant portions of the bridge have been demolished and are being rebuilt using reinforced concrete girders, enhanced reinforcement systems, and strengthened structural supports.
The project is actively ongoing and stands at 30% physical completion.
At the Iddo Bridge Underpass, the existing structure was completely removed to enable full reconstruction for which the scope includes continuous reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), improved drainage systems, and the installation of modern street lighting and utility infrastructure. Construction progress has reached 38%.
CRCPs are designed to control cracking, not eliminate it as cracks occur at regular, closely spaced intervals just as the reinforcement keeps cracks tight, and prevent them from widening.
A statement by the Media Relations department of the company stated that overall, the rehabilitation efforts are designed to enhance commuter safety, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and reduce structural risks along some of Lagos State’s busiest transport corridors.
The statement also said that in addition, the improvements are expected to ease traffic flow and strengthen economic activity across the state.
