Section of DSC flyover on the ongoing Warri Road.

By Monday Osayande, Asaba

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is gearing up to deliver the ongoing Warri-Effurun Flyovers and Roads project to the Delta State Government on schedule, it has been revealed.

In October 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori signed a contract agreement with the firm for the construction of three flyover bridges, a cloverleaf interchange, pedestrian bridges, and the expansion of roads in Warri and its environs. The project is expected to be completed within 30 months.

The project includes the design and construction of a flyover at DSC roundabout along Effurun/Patani, (East-West Highway) in Uvwie Local Council, a flyover bridge at PTI junction along the Effurun/Patani (East-West Highway, also in Uvwie Local Council and a flyover bridge from Enerhen junction, Effurun to Marine Gate, Warri in Warri South Local Council.

During the signing ceremony, Oborevwori expressed confidence in Julius Berger’s ability to deliver on schedule, citing their exceptional track record in road construction in Nigeria.

He chose Julius Berger based on the company’s reputation and expertise in constructing roads in riverine terrains as demonstrated by their successful projects in other states with similar topography to Warri.

Nearly two years later, Julius Berger has demonstrated progress on the three flyovers, underpasses and roads being constructed.

Meanwhile, work has progressed, with the relocation of high-tension overhead cables at the PTI junction flyover, allowing for resumption of work on that section.

Despite the rainy weather, construction continues with the launching of beams for the flyover and the construction of drainages.

Other sections of the project, such as the DSC and PTI junctions, are progressing. As of early last month, the DSC flyover is near 81.60 per cent completion, PTI flyover 68 per cent, but the Enerhen junction is 32.41 per cent due to delay in relocating the high-tension overhead cables.

Project Manager, Thomas Haug, said that the delay in the Enerhen junction section was not their fault, but the necessary adjustment to the high-tension transmission lines have been made to allow for uninterrupted work on the flyover and roundabout.

Despite challenges like the rain, the team remains determined to meet the delivery date.

Workers across the project sections are undeterred by the rain, with progress visible from DSC junction to Effurun.

Construction activities, including diversion roads, pipeline crossings, storm water drainages and road expansion, are in various stages of completion.

Meanwhile, the community’s cooperation and support have been instrumental in the project’s progress.