The Adamawa State government has set in motion plans to dualise the Girei-Yola road to save lives and property after a rise in accidents along the axis.
The Commissioner for Works and Housing, Muhammad Suleiman, disclosed this in an interview with journalists on Sunday in Yola, saying the dualisation of the road was among other measures the government planned to curb frequent crashes on the road.
Mr Suleiman said a committee, comprising the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) and other relevant agencies, was constituted to get to the root of the problem and proffer lasting solutions.
The commissioner said appropriate measures would be implemented following the conclusion of the committee’s report.
According to him, the proposed measures will focus on reducing accidents, while the dualisation of the remaining section of the road will be considered as a long-term solution.
The commissioner said the government had demonstrated commitment to improving road infrastructure and public safety through the construction of major projects in the state capital and local government headquarters.
Mr Suleiman said the ministry had also intervened on some federal highways, bridges and other road networks within the state.
On traffic violations around the flyover and the road linking Army Barracks Roads in Yola, the commissioner called for increased public sensitisation to discourage motorists from driving against traffic.
He explained that the road design deliberately reduced the number of U-turns to improve safety, prevent accidents, reduce congestion and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
He, however, expressed concern that some motorists were abusing the arrangement by driving against traffic instead of using designated U-turns.
“We are starting with sensitisation, and very soon, enforcement will follow. Stringent measures will be taken against traffic violators, particularly those driving against traffic,” he said.
The commissioner further stated that motorists caught driving against traffic could be subjected to psychiatric evaluation to determine their mental fitness to drive.
He said the measure would be introduced after public sensitisation, adding that offenders would also face fines as part of efforts to enforce traffic regulations.
He stressed that the measures were designed to protect road users, reduce accidents and ensure safer movement of vehicles across the state.
Mr Suleiman urged the FRSC and the media to intensify public enlightenment on the dangers and consequences of traffic violations.
The commissioner then appreciated the FRSC for recognising the ministry’s contributions to road safety by presenting him with an award.
(NAN)
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