Contractors handling the rehabilitation of the Benin-Sapele Road have returned to site following a temporary suspension of work caused by heavy rainfall, bringing relief to motorists, traders and residents.
A visit by correspondents to the bypass section of the road in Benin on Thursday confirmed the return of workers and heavy-duty equipment to various sections of the project that had been abandoned temporarily due to persistent rainfall.
The resumption comes days after Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, assured residents that contractors handling road projects across the state’s three senatorial districts would return to work as soon as the rains subsided.
Road users who spoke on the development expressed satisfaction with the contractor’s return, describing it as a positive step towards addressing the challenges associated with the deteriorating condition of the road.
Speaking on the progress of work, the Foreman of the Earth Moving Section, Mr Benjamin Danjuma, explained that the heavy rainfall had made construction activities difficult, particularly during the preparatory stage.
“The rain made it hard for us to continue, especially at the preparatory stage. As soon as the weather improved, we came back,” he said.
Danjuma disclosed that work had reached the first level of the stone-base stage, a critical component of the road’s foundation.
He explained that the next phase would involve stabilisation using stone base and cement, after which the final concrete layer would be laid.
Meanwhile, residents and other road users have welcomed the resumption of work, expressing optimism that the rehabilitation would improve transportation and economic activities along the route.
A resident and motorist, Mr Abdulmalik Usman, commended the state government for embarking on the rehabilitation project, noting that the road’s previous condition had caused considerable hardship for commuters.
“People suffered on this road when it was in a bad state. Now motorists can move more freely than before,” he said.
Similarly, a trader, Mrs Joy Obosheya, said the poor condition of the road had negatively affected businesses in the area by making access difficult for customers.
“I am happy the contractor is back. The condition of the road affected our business, but now it is easier for customers to reach our shops,” she said.
A commercial driver, Mr John Kingsley, also praised Governor Okpebholo for ensuring that construction activities resumed, noting that motorists and pedestrians had endured difficulties navigating the affected section for a long time.
“Okpebholo has done well by making sure the contractor returned to site,” he said.
The return of contractors is expected to sustain progress on the rehabilitation project and improve movement along the busy Benin-Sapele Road, which serves motorists, traders and residents in the area.
