Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has said the reinforced concrete pavement being deployed on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is designed to last between 50 and 100 years, with minimal maintenance.

Umahi said the technology was part of the Federal Government’s strategy to deliver roads capable of withstanding heavy traffic and reducing the cycle of repeated reconstruction.

“We are talking of 50 to 100-year guarantee for reinforced concrete pavement, with low maintenance,” he said.

The Minister said the durability of the pavement was particularly important for major economic corridors expected to carry heavy commercial traffic.

He disclosed that work on the 55-kilometre Section Two of the coastal highway was progressing, with the concrete pavement expected to be completed in November.

However, he explained that some bridges and flyovers would require additional time because of the engineering challenges around the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Deep Sea Port corridors.

According to Umahi, the structures must accommodate heavy-duty trucks while taking account of the soil conditions in the area.

He also disclosed plans to address drainage concerns along the completed section of the highway, saying service lanes and drainage channels were being incorporated to improve the evacuation of floodwater.

“We are creating five-foot drainage channels on both sides, and culverts will cross the coastal highway to connect to Lagos State drainage channels that lead to the lagoon,” he said.

Umahi maintained that the road was designed to withstand the environmental and traffic pressures associated with the coastal corridor.

The Federal Ministry of Finance has similarly said the highway is being constructed with continuously reinforced concrete pavement, designed for a minimum lifespan of 50 years with minimal maintenance. (Nigerian Tribune)