TheCable

The Lagos government has proposed the restriction of the movement of truck drivers within the Oshodi-Apapa expressway and other parts of the state.

There have been numerous complaints about how the bad roads and gridlock at the Apapa area of the state frustrate motorists and also affect seaport operations.

In December, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor, had said the state government had started the process of taking over control of the traffic situation at Apapa from the federal task force.

After visiting the area, Sanwo-Olu had said the state government would set up a seamless operation involving a team of officers from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and policemen from Area B.

In a statement, Gboyega Akosile, chief press secretary to the governor, quoted Frederic Oladeinde, the state commissioner for transportation, as saying the move was crucial to ease the traffic gridlock in the state, especially along the Apapa axis.

According to the statement, truck drivers would ply dedicated routes in the state between 9pm and 6am daily.

“The Lagos State Government has proposed the implementation of route restrictions for trailer and truck drivers operating within the State, while their movement periods are restricted to night time,” the statement reads.

“The Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, announced that the current administration has mapped out dedicated routes to be plied between 9:00 pm and 6:00 am daily.

“He elaborated that the move was necessary as the Apapa in Lagos has been rendered less profitable for investors due to the gridlock and activities of truck drivers along the axis, appealing to the stakeholders to cooperate with the State Government to remedy the situation.

“Oladeinde urged them to put aside their sentiments and think of other motoring public as the policy is not meant to cause rancour, but geared towards opening up the State for greater economic realities.

“The Commissioner implored the stakeholders to see issues raised as work in progress, while noting that discussions with the unions are ongoing until the grey areas are cleared.”