Motorists around the 7UP and Berger axis are facing heavy traffic as congestion linked to ongoing repairs continues. In fact, Berger gridlock has become a persistent issue in this area. In addition, multiple crashes at Kara Bridge have started to disrupt movement along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
According to The PUNCH, motorists spent more than 14 hours in traffic on Tuesday. This happened after a seven-vehicle crash at Kara Bridge compounded the congestion already caused by repair work on the bridge and contributed further to the Berger gridlock.
The gridlock initially affected motorists heading towards Ogun State. Later, it spread beyond the Long Bridge towards Magboro and back into Lagos, increasing the impact of the Berger gridlock.
Traffic later stretched towards Iyana-Oworo. Moreover, slow movement was reported around the Third Mainland Bridge as motorists searched for alternative routes.
Crashes worsen congestion
The initial accident involved a 40-foot container truck and six other vehicles at Kara Bridge.
Emergency responders said the truck developed a mechanical fault while in motion. Consequently, the driver lost control and collided with other vehicles.
Although the affected vehicles were eventually moved away from the carriageway, another accident later occurred around the same axis. This incident worsened the traffic situation.
LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq said, “The traffic was because another accident happened this evening in the same area.”
He added, “LASTMA officers were there till this night.”
Motorists resort to one-way driving
As the congestion worsened, some motorists reportedly drove against traffic in an attempt to escape the gridlock. This created additional bottlenecks for road users travelling in the opposite direction and added to Berger gridlock delays.
Commercial transport fares also increased during the disruption.
Commuters travelling from Iyana-Oworo to Berger reportedly paid as much as N2,000. Normally, these trips cost between N500 and N700.
Kara Bridge repairs continue
The traffic problems have been compounded by ongoing repairs to damaged expansion joints on Kara Bridge.
The Federal Government began the two-week rehabilitation on September 8, with work scheduled to continue until September 22.
Parts of the bridge have been closed during the repairs. As a result, vehicles travelling in both directions are forced to share limited sections of the expressway.
Traffic management officials from Lagos and Ogun states have been deployed along the corridor as efforts continue to ease movement.
Motorists using the 7UP, Berger and Kara Bridge axis are advised to expect delays. They should also allow additional time for their journeys while the repair work continues. Undoubtedly, Berger gridlock remains a significant concern for commuters in the area.
