The Orlu city remodelling is taking its final stage, as almost all the township roads in Orlu Local Government have been either fixed or are receiving attention as the Hope Uzodimma administration draws closer to its end.
For some years now, the majority of the township roads like Owus Avenue, St Joseph Road, Old Owerri Road to Nkwu-Ito, Ngumoha, IMSUTH Road, Amaigbo Road and others have been fixed, with many others still receiving attention.
Although the Imo State House of Assembly recently moved for the proper construction of Ezerioha Road, stretching from Okwuabala Ihioma down to Ihitteowerri and straight to the boundaries with Akwaihedi and Ezinifite in Nnewi South LGA of Anambra State, a lot of township roads are ready for commissioning.
Precisely, 15 township roads in Orlu are gearing up for commissioning, and they include Umunna Road; Old Market Junction Road – from Carrot Junction to T-Junction; Old Owerri Road; Awo-Idemili Street; Ezearo Street; Station Road; Bank Road, Orlu; Works/Fire Service Road; St Joseph Roundabout – Ichanga Street; IMSUTH Road Umunna; Ben Ohaeri Street; Emezie Street; Okorie Street; Obi Street; T-Junction; Old Market to Umuezeala Road; and Osuigwe, Ojiegbe Street, all in Orlu township.
In line with the Imo State Government’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure and enhancing connectivity across the state, the Commissioner for Works, Ralph Nwosu, embarked on an inspection tour of ongoing road, bridge, and erosion control projects within Orlu Zone.
The Commissioner commenced the tour with an inspection of the Orlu–Ihiala Road Project, including the stormwater control channel at the Amaifeke axis. During the visit, members of the host community, led by Dr Vin Odogwu, appealed for the extension of the drainage system beyond the current scope of work.
While acknowledging the community’s concerns, the commissioner explained that, considering the wet nature and topography of the road, a more sustainable solution would require the provision of land by the community for the construction of a catchment basin, adding that this would facilitate proper stormwater discharge, mitigate erosion risks, and ensure the long-term protection of the road infrastructure and adjoining properties.
The commissioner also inspected the ongoing Orlu–Urualla–Akokwa–Uga Road Project, including the erosion-ravaged sections at Umuchima and the bridge construction across the Urashi River, linking the Umuchima and Mgbe communities.
He commended the contractor for the impressive pace and quality of work and directed that the remaining gully-affected sections be reclaimed and adequately stabilised to guarantee the durability and safety of the road corridor.
The Commissioner emphasised that these projects are critical to the economic and social transformation of the area, as they will improve transportation, facilitate trade and agricultural activities, enhance security, reduce travel time, and boost socio-economic development across the benefitting communities.
The inspection further underscores the commitment of the administration of His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, to ensuring the timely delivery of durable and people-orientated infrastructure that promotes economic growth, strengthens connectivity, and improves the quality of life of Imo citizens.
