The Osun State Government has blamed indiscriminate dumping of refuse in waterways for the collapse of the Kuti-Panada-Aiba Bridge in Iwo Local Government Area.
It would be recalled that the bridge was submerged following heavy rainfall on Saturday.
The bridge was cordoned off on Sunday morning after the river overflowed its banks and covered the entire structure, rendering it impassable for motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
However, the Director of Highways, Ministry of Works, Engr. Moruf Ojebode, who inspected the site on Monday, said refuse dumping blocked the water passage and triggered the collapse.
Ojebode assured residents that the ministry would commence reconstruction soon and advised commuters to use alternative routes pending completion of the work.
He said, “This was part of the first set of roads we constructed when Governor Ademola Adeleke assumed office. The road is almost four years old and, except where water passes under the bridge, it has no cracks.
“The nonchalant attitude of some people, including indiscriminate dumping of refuse in waterways, is one of the causes of the collapse. The water passage was blocked by refuse.
“We are here promptly because the present administration is always concerned about the well-being of the people, and I want to assure you that rehabilitation will begin very soon.
“I appeal to residents and motorists in this community to avoid this road for now and use alternative routes.”
He further appealed to residents to desist from dumping refuse in the river, adding, “It is not good enough. There are many designated dump sites where they can dispose of their refuse.”
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