The Federal Ministry of Works has commenced an assessment of flood-ravaged sections of the Benin-Sagamu Expressway following recent heavy rainfall that disrupted traffic along parts of the busy highway.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this on Monday during an inspection of the affected areas around the Ore corridor in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Umahi, represented by the Federal Controller of Works in Ondo State, Engr. Olajide Hussein, identified three major flood-prone locations along the Ondo axis of the expressway: Agofure at Km 100, Adolak Junction near the Ore Flyover Bridge at Km 107, and the Agric Section at Km 117.

He said the ministry was developing targeted engineering solutions for the affected sections to curb recurring flooding and improve the safety and durability of the highway.

According to the minister, the inspection forms part of the Federal Government's efforts to identify vulnerable points on major road corridors nationwide and implement lasting flood-control measures.

Umahi noted that the recent torrential rainfall, linked to the growing effects of climate change, had triggered flooding across several communities and key highways, prompting the ministry to begin a comprehensive technical evaluation.

He explained that engineers are currently conducting hydraulic assessments of existing culverts and drainage systems to determine the causes of the flooding and recommend appropriate interventions.

“The recent intense precipitation across the country has caused widespread flooding in various communities and along major road corridors, a phenomenon widely attributed to ongoing climate change impacts.

“We are currently tracing the sources of the overflow to implement proactive solutions, including the potential resizing of cross-culverts and desilting blocked channels,” he said.

Umahi assured motorists that the ministry remained committed to restoring and safeguarding the highway, stressing that urgent technical measures were being implemented to strengthen drainage infrastructure and ensure smooth vehicular movement.

“In light of increasing climate change impacts, all necessary technical steps are being taken swiftly to enhance drainage capacity, mitigate the impact of unprecedented storm runoff and ensure safe, uninterrupted passage along this highway,” he added.

The minister also sympathised with commuters and residents whose movements and livelihoods were affected by the flooding.