Quick Summary:
PlateauBridgeAlert2026 as Plateau State Government raises alarm over five failing Federal Government bridges, urging urgent intervention to prevent collapse and isolation of southern communities.
The Plateau State Government has sounded the alarm over the imminent collapse of five Federal Government bridges located in the southern part of the state, warning that their deteriorating condition poses a serious risk to residents and commuters.
Commissioner for Works, Joshua Ubandoma Laven, raised the concern during an inspection tour of the affected bridges on Saturday, accompanied by top government officials.
He cautioned that if urgent action is not taken, the southern zone could be completely cut off from other parts of the state and neighboring regions.
Bridges at Risk
The bridges identified as being in critical condition include:
- Longvel Bridge along the Shendam–Yelwa Ibi Road in Shendam LGA
- Kufai Yelwa Bridge on the Yelwa–Garkawa Road in Shendam LGA
- Bakwai Bridge along the Langtang–Zamko–Garkawa Road in Langtang North LGA
- Bailey Bridges along the Langtang–Wase Road in Langtang North LGA
- Jarmai Bridge along the Dengi–Bashar Road in Kanam LGA
- Bauchi Road Bridge in Jos North LGA
Longvel Bridge in Critical Condition
Laven explained that the Longvel Bridge, constructed several decades ago, has suffered extensive structural damage due to repeated flooding.
He recalled that in 2012, severe flooding undermined the bridge’s foundation, prompting the Federal Government to construct a relief culvert. However, subsequent floods between 2014 and 2018 further weakened the structure, leading to foundation failure and subsidence.
He warned that the collapse of the Longvel Bridge, a key route linking Plateau, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, would cripple interstate movement and economic activities.
Call for Federal Intervention
The commissioner appealed to the Federal Government to urgently intervene, stressing that the situation is beyond the capacity of the state government.
Laven urged the Federal Ministry of Works to deploy an emergency response team and release funds for rehabilitation before the rainy season intensifies between March and April.
Risk of Isolation and Economic Disruption
The government warned that without immediate repairs, the southern zone of Plateau State could face transportation paralysis, affecting trade, agriculture, and access to essential services.
The Governor’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with federal authorities to ensure the safety and connectivity of all communities across the state.
