By Deborah Mdima Adekaa.

The Benue State Government has initiated steps to upgrade the Wurukum Flyover in Makurdi from a single-lane structure to a dual carriageway in a move aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility.

The Commissioner for Works, Hon. Kuma Aii Iyenge, on Monday led a technical team on a field assessment and measurement exercise at the flyover site to determine the requirements for the proposed expansion.

The exercise involved the Director of Civil Engineering, Engr. Tivfa Wombo; the State Controller of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Mukaula Danladi; the project manager, Li Quiang Quiang; and other representatives of China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), the contractor handling the project.

The proposed upgrade follows the state government’s decision to expand the flyover beyond its original single-lane design, which was adopted as part of the Makurdi–Enugu dual carriageway project.

The flyover was introduced into the project following a request by Governor Hyacinth Alia, which was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Although the structure was initially designed as a single lane, the Alia administration has opted for a dual carriageway, with the state government undertaking the cost of the additional works.

The expansion is expected to increase the road’s carrying capacity, improve traffic movement around the busy Wurukum axis and address the growing transportation demands of Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

Following the technical assessment, CHEC is expected to prepare and submit a revised design and cost estimate for the proposed expansion to guide further consideration and implementation.

The initiative forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to upgrade road infrastructure, improve traffic management and support the expanding urban development of Makurdi.