Lagos to curb traffic congestion

By Emmanuel Geoff-Iheanacho
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) is conducting a survey that will help in curbing traffic congestion on Lagos roads.

When completed, the survey will ensure timely rehabilitation of roads in the metropolis and reduce the number of work hours wasted daily on Lagos roads due to traffic congestion.

The survey, which is on the traffic situation in the city and the income range of Lagosians is being handled by Advanced Engineering Consultants.

A top official in the authority who pleaded anonymity, said the survey will help the economy to grow and foster understanding among family members.

He said it will also position Lagos for megacity transportation.

"Yes what they (the firm) are doing is part of the efforts to position Lagos for the challenges ahead. A mega city deserves a mega transportation system," he said. "But I cannot discuss the survey with you until they submit the report and the authorities approve of it. You already know the impact of the man hours lost on traffic to the economy and the family relationship in Lagos."

According to the firm, the survey which is now conducted on weekends will help government in planning and designating the vehicles that will ply the various routes, and help in timely maintenance of roads.

"We have finished the weekday's survey and you will now see our agents during the weekends. The survey is not just for traffic control but for road maintenance," Peter Agunbiade, the CEO of the firm said. "You know that when you construct a road, you know the number of vehicles that you expect to pass through before rehabilitation, you will plan ahead if you expect 5,000 (vehicles), in five years, you will start rehabilitation process from the third year."

He said that most roads are dilapidated because authorities have failed to consider their life span.

One of the agents conducting the survey, Anthony Ugboadaga said the response from the public has been poor.

"Most people don't want to answer questions, especially the one concerning their income range. They are always in a hurry and will not spare just one minute for us to get the information," Mr. Ugboadaga said. "How can we get the survey right if we don't know where people are coming from, their means of transportation, the cost of transportation, and how they wish to get back to their homes or wherever they may be coming from?"

He said the public should know that it is in their best interest, as the data will help the government in providing adequate transportation for the people and maintain the road.

Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438263-146/story.csp