The Federal Government on Monday  flagged off the rehabilitation of the 73km Odukpani Junction-Ikot Okopra-Akpet 1 section of the Calabar-Ikom-Ogoja road.

Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola flagged off the rehabilitation of the road  in Biase local government area of Cross River.

Fashola said the project, which would cost N14, 017, 170, 597.90, is a demonstration of the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to bridge the infrastructural gap in the country.

He said this was geared towards providing the much needed stimulants for economic growth and ease of doing business.

The project handled by a local contractors, Sermatech Construction Company, is expected to be completed in 24 months.

Fashola, who was represented by the Minister of State in the Ministry, Alhaji Mustapha Baba-Shehuri, said the Federal Government is investing heavily in the provision of critical infrastructure with at least one ongoing road project per state.

“This project is a 73km single carriage way. It links the industrial town of Akamkpa to Biase-Yakurr road. Its frequent plying by industrialists around the area led to its deterioration.

“The shoulders of the road have been completely eroded, while the entire alignment is riddled with alligator cracks, as well as characterized by potholes.

“The scope of work for the contract entails site clearance of shoulders, scarification of the existing failed carriage way and the provision of asphaltic concrete surfacing.

“The scope of work also include, surface dressing of shoulders, concrete lined drains, de-silting of blocked culverts, reinforced concrete pipe culverts among others.

“When completed, the road will greatly reduce vehicle operation maintenance cost, improve travel time, reduce accidents as well as loss of lives and properties.

“It will also enhance the socio-economic wellbeing of the people along the corridor, generate employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labour and assist in the fight against crime,” he said.