Commuters on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway are facing significant challenges as heavy traffic has brought movement to a near standstill. The gridlock, which started around 9 am, has been caused by two road crashes and a petrol-laden tanker explosion near the Ogere Mile 12 market.
*Causes of the Traffic Congestion:*
- *Road Crashes*: Two separate incidents occurred on both carriageways of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, contributing to the traffic jam.
- *Petrol-Laden Tanker Explosion*: A tanker carrying petrol exploded in front of the NASFAT Islamic Centre, causing dense smoke and further exacerbating the traffic situation.
- *Ongoing Maintenance*: A diversion on the Long Bridge due to maintenance work has also contributed to the congestion ¹.
*Impact on Commuters:*
- *Long Delays*: Commuters have been stuck for over eight hours, with many reporting late to work.
- *Traffic Congestion*: The gridlock stretches from Berger to Kara and down to Long Bridge, affecting both inbound and outbound traffic.
- *Alternative Routes*: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has advised commuters to explore alternative routes or postpone their trips until the situation improves ¹ ².
*Response from Authorities:*
- *FRSC Intervention*: The FRSC has mobilized experts to handle the situation and is working to remove obstructions and restore normal traffic flow.
- *Safety Measures*: Authorities have advised motorists to exercise caution and follow safety directives to prevent further accidents.
This traffic situation highlights the need for commuters to plan ahead and consider alternative routes to minimize disruptions. The FRSC's prompt response aims to mitigate the impact of the congestion and ensure public safety ¹.
