NDDC resumes work on Bridges linking Rivers communities
Barikui Felix- Port Harcourt
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has resumed construction work on the Kaa-Ataba Road and bridges in Rivers State.
The 2-kilometer double-lane single-carriageway road project, abandoned since 2009, will link the two local councils of Khana and Andoni in Rivers State.
Speaking during a visit to the bridge site, the Project Supervisor, Engr. Lawrence Ekanem described the multi-billion-naira project as ambitious and impactful, adding that the road and bridges would enhance socio-economic activities in Kaa, Ataba, and surrounding communities when completed.
He assured that his company would do everything necessary to ensure the project’s early completion, declaring, “We are committed to delivering on speed and quality.”
On his part, the project’s Community Liaison Officer, Mr. Bakpo Godspower, commended the commission for its intervention and appealed for its speedy completion.
He said: “The NDDC has done well by resuming work on the bridge, but we want them to complete it so that the connection between the communities separated by the river will be seamless. If the bridge is completed, it will increase socio-economic activities in the area.”
Godspower added that the project would open up the area’s communities, reduce accidents associated with river transportation, and boost socio-economic activities.
“The 2-kilometer double lane single carriageway with two bridges will improve the quality of life of the people of Kaa and Ataba and help transport farm produce, goods, and properties from this rich agricultural area. More importantly, it will reduce accidents and security breaches associated with water transport,” he stated.
Also speaking, a community leader in Kaa, Deacon Bassey Lezua, expressed delight that the project, which appeared neglected, had been revived.
He stated: “The contractor has returned to the site, and we will give them all the cooperation they need to complete the project.”
He said that some communities, like Oyorokoto, one of the region’s largest fishing ports, were important growth centers that would benefit from the project.
On her part, a businesswoman in Kaa community, Mrs Zorbari Pimnee, urged the NDDC to ensure that the contractor did not falter on the project again, noting that businesses in the area could only thrive if the road were completed.
