A crucial bridge in the Shendam local government area of Plateau State, Nigeria, has collapsed due to heavy rainfall, causing significant disruptions to local transportation routes. The bridge, which served as a vital link between the Total area and other parts of Shendam town, collapsed on a Sunday afternoon, leading to concerns about accessibility and transportation in the region.
The aftermath of this collapse extends beyond Shendam’s boundaries, as the bridge also played a pivotal role in connecting the neighboring Mikang local government area. Specifically, it served as a primary route to Tunkus, an adjoining region of the state. The sudden collapse of this strategic bridge has plunged the region into a transportation dilemma, forcing residents to navigate longer and less efficient alternative routes to reach their intended destinations.
Benedicta Naanpoe, a Shendam town resident, shared her observations on the incident, reassuring that no lives were lost due to the bridge’s collapse. However, she expressed her community’s collective apprehension over the impending reconstruction process. The use of these alternative routes, she emphasized, is an unwelcome financial burden for citizens who are already grappling with the recent surge in transport costs following the removal of petrol subsidies.
“This bridge was the backbone of local businesses in Shendam, serving as a vital conduit for both commercial and personal activities,” Benedicta Naanpoe stressed. “Not only did the people of Shendam depend on it, but also our neighbors in Mikang local government area. With its unfortunate collapse, the entire community is compelled to seek alternative routes, albeit at a significantly higher cost.”
In her impassioned appeal, she urged the relevant government authorities to expedite the bridge’s reconstruction. This urgency, she emphasized, stems not only from the need to revive seamless business operations but also to ensure the safety of those who might be tempted to use the compromised bridge.
The Chairman of the Transition Committee for the Shendam local government area, Mr. Kemi Nshe, confirmed the incident’s occurrence. He revealed that necessary actions had already been taken to inform various government agencies about the dire situation. Although the bridge falls under federal jurisdiction, discussions have been held with the State Commissioner for Works to address the issue promptly.
Mr. Nshe recounted a similar incident in 2012 when the bridge faced collapse and was subsequently rebuilt. He revealed plans to report the current situation to the Federal Road Director and the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) by the coming Monday. “This road is of paramount importance to the community,” he emphasized, highlighting the bridge’s daily use by the populace. Urgent assistance is being sought to restore the region’s vital transportation artery.
