Lakes Governor Warns of Growing Danger as Key Bridges Deteriorate

By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok

The Governor of Lakes State, Gen. Madhang Majok Meen, has raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of several major bridges and roads across the state, warning that urgent intervention is needed to prevent further damage.

Governor Madhang stated that key bridges, including Kalthok, Payii, Bharnaam, Bhar Gel, and Makak, are in critical condition.

He attributed the current accessibility of some bridges to the prolonged dry spell, which has allowed vehicles to continue crossing areas that would otherwise be difficult to navigate during the rainy season.

He emphasized that the condition of the roads is worsening and called for urgent intervention to ease the difficulties faced daily by residents and motorists.

Eng. Gabriel Makur Amuor, the National Undersecretary for Roads and Bridges, reported that engineering teams are working to improve the quality and condition of bridges along major roads.

Amuor explained that rehabilitation teams would operate from two main camps. One base for the NELSCO team will be established in Greater Yirol, while another will be located in Mabor-Alueth, where drilling equipment and other tools will be assembled.

He further explained that these teams would then be dispatched to identified hotspots along the roads to carry out rehabilitation and other necessary works.

Meanwhile, Moses Dhukpuou Maper, the Acting State Minister for Roads and Bridges, stressed that community awareness and participation are essential for successful development projects.

Maper stated that communities in Wulu County would be informed about areas affected by mountainous terrain and cracks that require collective intervention.

He emphasized that development projects are costly and require commitment from both the government and local communities to improve the welfare of the people.

Alajabo Madit Cholthok, the State Director-General in the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, noted that several areas, including Wulu and Wako, have sufficient supplies of stones and other materials that could be used for road rehabilitation.

Cholthok said these locally available materials could support efforts to rehabilitate the highway and improve its quality.

He added that improving road infrastructure would contribute to increased economic activity and production by making it easier for people and businesses to transport goods and access markets.