As Anambra State continues to witness unprecedented transformation under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s leadership, with the construction and rehabilitation of roads, it is imperative to safeguard these infrastructure investments.
The unchecked proliferation of speed bumps on newly constructed roads poses a significant threat to the longevity and effectiveness of these public infrastructure.
According to recent data, the unchecked installation of speed bumps has resulted in a thirty per cent increase in road damage and a twenty-five per cent decrease in traffic flow.
While the intention behind these speed bumps may be to ensure safety, their haphazard installation can have far-reaching consequences.
Not only do they hinder the smooth movement of traffic, they also compromise the structural integrity of the roads.
This, in turn, can lead to premature wear and tear, necessitating costly repairs and undermining the long-term viability of these critical infrastructure projects.
It is imperative that communities recognize the importance of preserving these roads and the benefits they bring to the state’s economic and social development.
Rather than resorting to speed bumps, communities can explore alternative measures to ensure road safety.
Installing proper road signage, for instance, can effectively alert drivers to potential hazards and encourage responsible driving practices.
Enhancing community engagement through public awareness campaigns and collaboration with local authorities can also foster a culture of road safety and responsibility.
Implementing traffic calming measures, such as speed tables or chicanes, can slow traffic without causing damage to the road infrastructure.
Additionally, the Anambra State Government should establish a task force to regulate the installation of speed bumps and ensure that they are constructed in accordance with safety standards.
Communities should refrain from actions and decisions that will compromise the integrity and life span of public infrastructure to justify the huge resources expended in building them and achieve the desired goals.
Presidents General and Traditional Rulers should help to check this unwholesome exercise in their communities.
This synergy is one sure way to ensure that infrastructure investments continue to drive progress and prosperity for generations to come.
TONY OKAFOR
