FESTAC Link Bridge closed after fire

The Lagos State Government on Wednesday closed a section of the FESTAC Link Bridge, where a raging fire burnt 21 vehicles and five motorcycles on Friday.

The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olawale Musa, said the decision was taken in order to save lives of motorists and other users of the bridge.

The bridge was engulfed in fire on Friday after a fuel-laden tanker upturned and spilled its content.

Musa explined on Wednesday that the closure was as a result of an expert advice by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure that the integrity of the bridge was in doubt, and therefore needed to be closed down for repairs.

He said, “Motorists using the link bridge will now be restricted to one section of the bridge for safety.

“The closure will not lead to gridlock because adequate arrangement has been made to minimise the impact on connectivity.

“More men and materials have been deployed in the area to manage traffic.

“We urge motorist and commuters to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic officuals.”

Musa assured residents of the area that they would enjoy seamless traffic during Yuletide period.