How gully erosion disrupted economic activities, properties in Abak:
From the street to the studio, the voice of the people resounded when contract for the construction of Ikot Oku Ikono Flyover bridge was awarded: it was like a dream come true for motorists and other road users. But today, the story is different as the road is now a death trap for road users, the people of Abak and neighbouring communities.
The Roundabout which serves as diversion routes for vehicles going to Abak, Etim Ekpo, Mkpat Enin, Oruk Anam, Ukanafun, Ika, Etinan, Ikot Abasi, Abia and Rivers is in a deplorable state.
Due to the ongoing work at the Junction, traffic was diverted through Idoro
Road by Pepsi Depot and terminated at Ukpom and Hospital Roads and other Areas.
But the rate of traffic going through this axis has led to total collapse of the road, with top soil washing away, leaving the road with gullies, pot holes, posing serious danger to the people using the roads.
Plying this road, one could say, is an herculean task. Smaller vehicles can no longer have access due to flooded gully , heavy trucks are not helping out too, as they get stock in the gully making life more frustrating for the motorists.
The only way one could pass through such area is through diversion in a narrow bush track which is also a greater risk for drivers and passengers.
Another way one could survive through the big flooded gully is through the helping hands of young teens, who normally assist drivers escape the gully. This scene is not funny as the life of those young children is not safe too.
An on the spot interaction with the youth leaders and business operators revealed that the people are planning road block and peaceful protest if the road remain deplorable without maintenance.
The business operators also decried of frequent flooding, untold hardship and accident cases since the community road was open for public as alternative routes.
The people therefore called on the Government and Relevant Authorities to come to their aid. From the street to the studio we believe that proper drainage mechanism will be put in place with a better road maintenance before the rain intensifies.
Idara Enobong, Environment enthusiast, writes from Uyo.
