Umahi Unveils CCTV on Third Mainland Bridge to Prevent Suicides, Curb Illegal Sand Mining
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has announced the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos as part of efforts to enhance safety and security.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Umahi explained that the surveillance system is designed not only to monitor security incidents but also to prevent suicide attempts on the bridge. “We have installed CCTVs under the deck to detect anyone excavating sand within a 10-kilometre radius,” Umahi stated. “Additionally, we’ve set up an examination house near the bridge, where the police, navy, army, and local security personnel will monitor the footage.”
He emphasized that the CCTV system will help identify anyone attempting suicide on the bridge, ensuring a rapid response. “This system will also put an end to illegal sand mining beneath the deck and around the piles,” he added.
Umahi also addressed the temporary closure and recent reopening of the Independence Bridge in Lagos, explaining that the closure was necessary due to a structural flaw in the approach slab. He noted that the original design of the slab had been compromised, leading to its collapse when the underlying sand filling eroded.
On the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, the Minister expressed satisfaction with its progress. He confirmed that a major section would be ready for commissioning by President Bola Tinubu on May 25, 2025. “As of today, we’ve completed about 15 kilometres of the first section, with plans to extend it to 30 kilometres by May 25,” Umahi said.
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