Posts
The road, which had initially raised hopes for better infrastructure and ease of access, has now become a source of frustration as severe flooding plagues the area.
The road, which had initially raised hopes for better infrastructure and ease of access, has now become a source of frustration as severe flooding plagues the area.
Motorists and commuters along the busy Udeagbara Bypass Road in Ahiaba Umueze Owuala in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State during the weekend were stranded, owing to a gridlock caused by flood in the aftermath of a heavy downpour.
SaharaReporters learnt that the road was recently commissioned by Governor Alex Otti.
“Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has continued to match words with action with the formal commissioning of three-newly reconstructed roads in Aba.
“The roads are Udeagbala Road, Umuimo Road and MCC/Old Express Road.
“Governor Otti described the three roads as strategic, saying that the Udeagbala and Umuimo roads in particular are more or less alternative from the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway into the busy Aba-Owerri Road and to Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) road, while the MCC/Old Express Road would boost the economy of Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the State,” a statement by Kazie Uko, the governor’s former Chief Press Secretary had read during the commissioning.
However, few months after the road was opened, residents have expressed deep concerns over the failure of the newly rehabilitated road and drainage system.
The road, which had initially raised hopes for better infrastructure and ease of access, has now become a source of frustration as severe flooding plagues the area.
It was learnt that the community, which houses the Abia State Teaching Hospital, is facing significant challenges as the drainage system, meant to alleviate flooding, has failed to perform its intended purpose.
As a result, residents are now left grappling with constant waterlogging, making it difficult to carry out their daily activities.
Many have reported having to wait until floodwaters subside before leaving their homes, especially after rainfalls.
In a live video shared by a community member, Possible Nwaohamuo on Sunday, he highlighted the extent of the problem.
In the video, Nwaohamuo made the appeal to the state government, urging for immediate intervention.
He pointed out that the floodwaters from the failed drainage system have not only taken over homes but have also severely affected schools and places of worship in the area.
“The flooding is a disaster for our community,” Nwaohamuo said during his broadcast.
“We can no longer go about our daily activities in peace. Our children cannot go to school, and our places of worship are submerged. We need the government to come to our rescue.
“Despite the rehabilitation project being relatively new, its failure has raised questions about the quality of work done and the long-term sustainability of such projects.”
Sahara Reporters
No comments