By LYDIA CHIGOZIE-NGWAKWE

The Lagos State Government has restricted construction activities across the state to between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, announced the new directive in a statement on Thursday, by the agency?s Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Mukaila Sanusi.

Olumide said the measure became necessary to safeguard the environment, curb incidences of building collapse, and enhance the overall well-being of residents.

?This restriction must be strictly adhered to by all stakeholders in the construction sector.

?It is in the public interest and will be enforced by relevant government agencies.?

He added that while the state recognised the dynamic nature of building projects, any request to work beyond the stipulated hours must be made through a formal application and would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

?Concessions may be granted but only after due diligence and evaluation,? he said.

The commissioner also urged residents to be vigilant and proactive by reporting construction sites that flout the directive.

?We encourage the public to take ownership of their environment. If you observe construction activities going on outside the approved hours, please report them to the appropriate authorities,? Olumide said.

A construction worker at a site in the Agodo-Egbe area in Alimosho Local Government, who gave his name simply as Musa Tola, told NAN that while the policy might affect project timelines, it was a welcome development if it would help reduce hazards.

?Sometimes we work overnight to meet deadlines but safety is important. If government is serious about this, we will have to adjust,? Tola said.

Similarly, Mrs. Ifeoma Uche, a resident of Idimu, described the move as timely.

?Some sites work all night and the noise disturbs everyone. I think this will bring some sanity,? she said.

NAN reports that Lagos has witnessed several building collapses in recent years, prompting renewed attention to regulatory oversight in the construction sector.

The government said enforcement of the new working hours would commence immediately. (NAN)

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