The Federal Government has announced plans to demolish the Carter Bridge in Lagos, saying the historic structure is no longer safe for use.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, disclosed this on Wednesday, September 10, during an inspection of the bridge’s underdeck.
He explained that engineering reports from Julius Berger Plc and other consultants all reached the same conclusion: the bridge is beyond repair.
“We came today to check whether we could salvage the ramps, so that we can reduce both cost and time of construction. But if the reports we received are correct, then both the ramps and the main section of the Carter Bridge will have to be pulled down,” Umahi said.
Carter Bridge, first built in 1901, was the very first link between Lagos Island and the mainland. Over the years, it has been reconstructed and repaired several times, but it has remained an essential route for millions of commuters and traders moving between Iddo, Idumota, and CMS.
The minister noted that although the government will recheck the reports using its own instruments, most stakeholders agree that a new bridge must replace the existing one.
He also pointed out that remains of the original Carter Bridge, which was blown up with explosives many years ago, still cause challenges for water transportation in the lagoon.
“Any new project must include the removal of those remains to make sure navigation in the lagoon is not disturbed,” he added.
Umahi further explained that talks are ongoing to see if any part of the current structure can be retained. However, he stressed that safety and durability will determine the final decision.