By Bonaventure Alufo
Traffic gridlock that once crippled major junctions across Anambra State is easing fast, following the installation of modern traffic lights at strategic junctions by the Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.
Motorists, traders, and residents said the automated signals have restored order, cut travel times, and reduced accidents at notorious hot spots like Aroma junction in Awka, Upper Iweka in Onitsha, and Nkpor junction.
The project is part of Governor Soludo’s infrastructure agenda to build a “Livable and Prosperous Homeland” and improve connectivity between communities. The state government has also awarded major road contracts to compliment traffic flow, including the Boulevard in GRA, Onitsha.
Speaking to the press, Mr. Emeka Nwanna, Inter- City Bus driver, Awka-Onitsha Route, said “Before, Aroma junction was hell. You can spend one hour there. Touts will block you, cars will face each other. Since Soludo put this traffic lights, everywhere is calm. You stop on red, you go on green. I now save fuel and time. Governor Soludo really did well.”
Also Speaking, Mrs Okereke Hope, a School teacher in Ekwulobia said, “My School is after Ekwulobia junction. Pupils use to come late because of traffic. Since government installed the traffic lights, there is order. No more fighting on the road. Accidents have drastically reduced. We are grateful to Governor Soludo for remembering us”.
In his reaction, Chief Mike Ugoegbe, a resident in Nkpor, said “Nkpor junction used to be a death trap, but now with the traffic lights, drivers always respect the rules. Police don’t need to shout again. This is real development because it touches the common man daily. We are applauding His Excellency, Prof. Soludo.”
The residents joyfully say the impact of Soludo government is “Instant and undeniable ” and are urging the state government to extend the traffic lights rollout to other congested junctions across the State.
Bonaventure is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
