.deploys more LASTMA to notorious areas

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has assured residents of strategic plans to ensure seamless vehicular movement and public safety during and after the fast approaching 2024 yuletide period.

LASTMA has pledged to also raise deployment of officers and escalate patrols across key areas of the metropolis to effectively manage the anticipated influx of road users.

The period, synonymous with festivities in Lagos, with attendant high influx of vehicular and human activities across the roads.

During a strategic session convened at LASTMA Headquarters on Friday, chaired by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, officers were charged to adopt a forward-thinking approach in anticipation of the surge in vehicular traffic and illegal roadside trading.

“Both of these challenges have the potential to impede the seamless flow of traffic and human movement across the State.

Giwa underscored the critical need for an integrated and robust response from LASTMA personnel, acknowledging that the Ember months are traditionally characterized by heightened road activity and increased congestion.

He urged officers to remain vigilant and to take assertive measures against any actions that could compromise the safe and efficient transit of both vehicles and pedestrians before, during and after the festive season.

“Our foremost priority is ensuring the safety and convenience of all road users in Lagos. LASTMA officers must remain ever watchful, and decisive in addressing illegal roadside trading and other activities that threaten to disrupt traffic flow,” Giwa stated.

LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, elaborated on some of key locations to be closely monitored, which include: Oyingbo, Iddo, Idumota, Apongbon, Mile 12, Kara, Mile 2, Alaba-Rago, Lekki-Ajah Expressway, among others.

He further urged motorists to utilize the Agency’s toll-free hotline (080000527862) for swift assistance in the event of any traffic-related inconveniences.

In attendance at the high-level meeting were: Directors, Comptrollers, Commanders, Zonal Heads, all of whom reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to maintaining traffic order during this peak period.

The agency appealed to all residents, particularly motorists, to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and collaborate with LASTMA personnel to ensure a secure, safe, and enjoyable festive period.