Heavy rains in the Shemdam Local Government Area of Plateau State have led to the collapse of a major bridge in the community.
The aforementioned bridge is also a significant highway going to Tunkus in Plateau state’s adjoining Mikang local government district, and its collapse has hampered smooth movement for inhabitants, who may have to travel longer alternate routes to reach their destinations.
According to Benedicta Naanpoe, a resident of Shendam town, no lives were lost, but citizens are concerned about when the bridge will be rebuilt for ease of movement because taking alternative routes would place an additional financial burden on citizens, given the already increased transport fares as a result of the removal of the petrol subsidy.
She said, “It is the only major bridge that eases the movement for all businesses in Shendam and people in the nearby local government. Mikang also depends on the bridge for most of their activities in Shendam and its environs. With the collapse of the bridge, everyone will have to find alternative routes, but the cost will be higher.”
She requested that the relevant government body in Plateau State restore the bridge as soon as possible to ensure ease of business and to prevent any deaths, as some individuals risk using the bridge.
Confirming the incident in Plateau state, the Transition Committee Chairman of Shendam local government area stated that “we have already reported it to the different government agencies. That is a federal road, but I have discussed it with the State Commissioner for Works.
“This same bridge collapsed sometime in 2012 or thereabout and was reconstructed. We will report to the Federal Road Director, the FERMA, by Monday so that speedy help can come. It is a major road, and the people make use of the bridge daily.”
