The Federal Government has awarded N8.6 billion contract for the construction of second Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos in order to ensure free flow of traffic at Tin Can Island and Apapa ports. The contract which was awarded to Bornini Prono Construction Company is expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2012.

The new bridge is to run parallel to the existing one, commencing from Tin Can Island Port Second Gate to terminate at the Port Novo Creek, used by sand dealers across the road, and will also connect Apapa-Oshodi Expressway for easy exit for trucks and vehicles leaving the port. The aim it was gathered, is to reduce the bottleneck and constant breakdown experienced by truck drivers while trying to access the existing bridge.

According to investigations, government is also expanding the road between the two lanes at the Tin Can Island First Gate to accommodate the new bridge and ensure free movement of vehicles going to Apapa and the trucks waiting to take delivery of consignments at the Tin Can Island Port. Also government it was learnt, will construct an ultra modern truck park at the Port Novo Creek that will accommodate up to 400 trucks, to reduce the number of articulated vehicles parking on the road.

The Federal Controller of Works and Housing, Ejike Mgbemena, said government is concerned about the plight of the masses and would do everything possible to proffer solution to the lingering traffic jam in Apapa and Tin Can Island.

“When the work is completed it will reduce the man-hours which port users, commuters and motorists spend everyday before getting to their offices as a result of bad roads and chaotic traffic situations,” the controller stated.

The Liverpool Bridge was constructed over three decades ago when the ports were established and till date, no major work has been done on it, despite damages it suffered for heavy duty trucks making use of it