In a bid to enhance safety and security on the Third Mainland Bridge, the Federal Government has installed high-tech CCTV cameras to monitor overspeeding motorists and other activities on and under the bridge. Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this in the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway stakeholders meeting on Sunday, while providing an update on the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
Umahi raised concerns over excessive speeding on the bridge, warning that while installing speed bumps might seem like a solution, it could lead to traffic congestion and add undue stress to the bridge’s structure. “The speed there is so terrible. If we put speed bumps, then it’s going to create a hold-up on the bridge, and that is dead load. There’s no bridge that is designed for dead load,” he explained.
To tackle the issue, the government has opted for a surveillance-based approach, installing CCTV cameras both on top of and beneath the bridge. He noted that the monitoring system will be connected to Abuja, allowing authorities to track activities in real time.
“We will have it commissioned, and we have put people in place to check over-speeding on that bridge,” Umahi added.
Beyond the Third Mainland Bridge, the minister revealed that the rehabilitation has been extended to Falomo, where streetlights and additional surveillance cameras have also been installed.
“Whatever you’re doing from Falomo to Third Mainland Bridge and the ramps, we are seeing you. It’s on camera,” he warned.
Umahi also provided updates on the structural work being carried out beneath the bridge. He stated that while motorists can now experience smoother rides due to completed surface repairs and expansion joint replacements, major reinforcement efforts are ongoing underneath the deck.
The project, being handled by Julius Berger aims to ensure the long-term durability and safety of the bridge, which remains a critical route for millions of Lagos commuters.
