Hundreds Stranded as Temporary Bridge Collapses in Taraba Following Heavy Rainfall

Hundreds of travellers have been left stranded after a temporary bridge, built by a private entity at the Namnai Bridge, gave way. The Namnai Bridge is situated along the Jalingo-Wukari Federal Highway.

The original bridge at the location had collapsed two years prior and has yet to be rebuilt.

Reports indicate that the River Namnai's water levels rose significantly following intense rainfall on Wednesday night, causing the makeshift structure to be washed away.

This temporary bridge had been serving as a crucial crossing point for motorists during the prolonged absence of a permanent replacement, according to information from Daily Trust.

The individual responsible for its construction had been charging between N3,000 and N20,000 per vehicle to use the passage, with numerous vehicles, including trucks, utilizing the route daily.

Following the collapse, motorists found themselves unable to cross as the rising water levels rendered the route impassable.

A driver identified as Musa Adamu shared with Daily Trust that a multitude of vehicles were compelled to stop on both sides of the river.

He further explained that passengers are now required to cross the river on foot and then find alternative vehicles on the opposite bank to continue their journeys.

Observations at the scene reveal that the reconstruction of the permanent bridge, a project awarded by the North East Development Commission three months ago, is progressing at a slow pace.

Previously, the commission had indicated that the project was scheduled for completion by December of the current year.