Benin flyover: Contractor insists on 18 months feasibility

The contractor handling the flyover bridge project at the Ramat Park axis of Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday said the 18-month completion date is feasible, considering the pace of ongoing work.

The Site Manager/Engineer, Nosa Ikhinmwingboe, who spoke on behalf of the contractor (ECC China Civil Engineering Company) handling the project, gave the assurance while speaking with journalists during an inspection exercise supervised by the Edo State Ministry of Works.

He stated that 20 percent of the work has been completed and that, with the manpower and equipment available, the government has nothing to worry about regarding the completion date.

“Yes, we can meet the 18-month deadline. We have enough materials and sufficient formwork on the ground. I also have enough laborers available.

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“We have completed about 20 percent of the work so far. You know, a bridge consists of the substructure and the superstructure. The major work we have done is the substructure, which is the foundation.

“So, by the time we begin working on the superstructure, it will be visible for everyone to see,” Ikhinmwingboe said.

He added that the construction company is prepared to work in all seasons to ensure timely delivery.

“We have no challenges, and everything is going smoothly. The work is progressing well.

“We will deliver within the 18-month timeframe. Even during the rainy season, we will continue working because most of the tasks scheduled for that period involve installation.

“So, I believe that before the rainy season, all the foundation work should be completed,” Ikhinmwingboe added.

A week after the inauguration of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, he flagged off the construction of the flyover, mandating its completion within 18 months.

According to him, completing the Ramat Park flyover in Benin will significantly enhance the economic and social development of the capital city and Edo State as a whole.

He described Ramat Park as the gateway to Benin City and other parts of the country.

Governor Okpebholo further stated that, upon completion, the bridge would improve the ease of movement for motorists and commuters along the two corridors of the Benin-Auchi Expressway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway.

He said:

“I warmly welcome you to the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Ramat Park Flyover here in Benin City.

“We have gathered to witness the beginning of a crucial project that will transform the economic and social fortunes of our capital city and, indeed, Edo State.

“Ramat Park serves as a gateway to Benin City and other parts of the country.

“Therefore, the Ramat Park Flyover will provide a new lease on life for motorists in Benin City and communities along these two corridors—the Benin-Auchi Expressway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway.

“During our campaigns a few months ago, I specifically promised to construct flyovers to ease transportation and reduce traffic congestion in our city.

“Today, one week into my administration, we are here to fulfill that promise and deliver the dividends of democracy,” Okpebholo said.