Ibadan-Eruwa road: Transforming a deteriorated thoroughfare into sustainable roadway

The much-anticipated reconstruction of the 48-Kilometer Ido-Eruwa road is well underway, transforming what was once a severely deteriorated thoroughfare into a robust and sustainable roadway.

The Oyo State Government, engaging the services of a contractor has prioritised engineering excellence over quick fixes, addressing longstanding issues that have plagued the road for years.

Previously, the Ido-Eruwa road was a symbol of infrastructural neglect, characterised by extensive damage and poor durability. The past construction efforts were typified by inadequate sand-filling, ineffective stabilisation and shoddy engineering works overlaid with asphalt, which unsurprisingly failed to withstand the test of use.

This unprofessional approach to the project led to rapid deterioration of the road, particularly in areas with high water tables that are prone to flooding.

The design of the current project, awarded in February 2023, marks a departure from the previous superficial fixes. This time around, the Oyo State Government has tasked the contractor to carry a comprehensive engineering overhaul of the road to ensure long-term durability and reliability. One of the primary improvements is the installation of adequate hydraulic culverts and drainage systems at both ends of Ido and Eruwa, spanning over 10 kilometers.

This intervention addresses the chronic flooding issues that previously compromised the road’s integrity.

At the Ido end of the project, particularly between the Road Safety Office and Ido Junction, the high water table necessitated the introduction of a larger 2m x 2m box culvert and the raising of the road profile. These measures will prevent water from undermining the road’s foundation. Significant work is also being done to remove unsuitable soil, especially over a 5-kilometer stretch at the Ido end. The area was refilled and stabilised with suitable materials to provide a stable base for the road construction.

At the Eruwa end, particularly in New Eruwa, strategic water channeling has been implemented to manage the flow of water, mitigating the main cause of road damage in the area. To tackle persistent flooding problems, stabilisation Anne’s bollards materials have been introduced in critical areas, ensuring that the road remains resilient against flood-induced damage.

The contractor has made commendable progress, with substantial sections of the road already stone-based and asphalted at both the Ido and Eruwa ends. These completed sections, covering a few kilometers at both ends, were initially done to test resilience and durability. The results from these sections indicate that the community can look forward to a solid and durable road being delivered in the shortest possible time. These sections showcase the improved durability and quality of the new construction design.

Currently efforts are focused on site clearance and the clearing of road verges, followed by earthworks to fill the road with sub and stone base to the design level. Stone basing and the installation of additional hydraulic drainage and culverts are ongoing, with further asphalting planned for the remaining areas.

This project demystifies the common misconception that road construction is limited to the mere application of asphalt. Proper road construction is a complex process that involves meticulous planning and engineering. It requires addressing underlying issues such as water management, soil stability, and adequate drainage. This engineering-centric approach ensures that roads are not only built to last but also capable of withstanding environmental challenges.

The Oyo State Government and the contractor have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability. This project will stand as a testament to what can be achieved when engineering principles are prioritized over shortcuts.

The residents of Ido and Ibarapa can look forward to a reliable and durable roadway that meets the highest standards of construction and is a model of excellence in road construction.