The Anambra State House of Assembly has charged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to direct the Ministry of Transport and the Managing Director, Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA) to ensure the removal of all unapproved bumps constructed with non-compatible materials on asphalted roads in the state.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
this was contained in a motion sponsored by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon Ikenna Ofodeme
Moving the motion, Hon Ofodeme contended that for bumps or speed breakers to achieve its objectives, they must be professionally designed, properly engineered and constructed with materials compatible with asphalt technology; so as not to weaken or damage the structural integrity of road network.
The lawmaker regretted that across Anambra, many communities, individuals and groups have resorted to the indiscriminate construction of bumps on both new and old asphalted roads without the approval of the Ministry of Transport or ARTMA.
The Majority Leader who is the member representing Ekwusigo LGA maintained that the practice contradicts global standards, and observed that it causes cracks, potholes and premature deterioration of roads, thereby leading to waste of government resources.
“Aware that road bumps, otherwise referred to as speed breakers, are primarily designed to serve as traffic calming devices aimed at reducing the speed of vehicles, enhancing road safety, preventing accidents, and protecting lives and property in residential areas, school zones, markets, and other busy public places.
“Also concerned that most of these bumps are constructed with non-compatible mixtures such as cement, sand, stones, or concrete,which are not in line with asphalt standards, thereby causing cracks, potholes, and premature deterioration of roads,leading to waste of government resources.
“Mindful that these unapproved bumps not only reduce the lifespan of our roads but also constitute a serious danger to motorists and commuters, often resulting in accidents, vehicle damage, unnecessary traffic congestion, and in some cases, loss of lives;
“Cognizant that the Ministry of Transport and ARTMA has the statutory responsibility to regulate, approve, and supervise the construction of all speed calming measures on roads within the State,” Ofodeme representing Ekwusigo constituency, concluded.
Supporting the motion, Engr. Emma Nwafor (Orumba South), Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke (Aguata one) and Chief Whip
Barr. Jude Ngobili (Ihiala one) in their submissions emphasized that unregulated speed breakers constitute serious risks to road safety, obstruct smooth vehicular movement, and increase maintenance costs for government and motorists.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, who presided plenary, while ruling the motion urged relevant authorities to act swiftly in implementing the resolution to safeguard road users and preserve government investments in infrastructure.
