By Kingsley Adegboye

The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has urged the management of Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL) to address concerns raised over ongoing construction activities on a plot along Bendel Street, Area 2, Section 1, Garki, Abuja.

In a statement, HDAN said it recognised the importance of investment, construction and real estate development to the growth of the Federal Capital Territory, but stressed that development activities should be carried out with appropriate consideration for public safety, environmental conditions and surrounding communities.

According to the organisation, some users of the area have raised concerns relating to the movement of heavy-duty vehicles, dust, mud on the roadway and possible effects of construction activities on traffic and existing drainage and road infrastructure.

HDAN said particular attention should be given to the safety and convenience of children, families, traders and other members of the public who use the area.

The organisation said construction activities involving heavy-duty vehicles in residential and commercial environments require appropriate traffic and safety arrangements.

It also recommended measures to manage construction dust, particularly in areas where homes, businesses and food vendors operate close to construction activities.

HDAN said appropriate dust-control measures could help minimise exposure to construction-related particulate matter and reduce the deposition of dust on goods and other items displayed in nearby commercial areas.

The organisation urged AICL to review its construction arrangements and consider mitigation measures, including dust suppression, regular cleaning of affected sections of roadway, appropriate covering of trucks transporting sand and other construction materials, and traffic management where necessary.

It also recommended designated movement arrangements for heavy-duty vehicles, warning signs and barriers where appropriate, as well as measures to protect existing drainage infrastructure.

Where any public infrastructure is found to have been affected by construction activities, HDAN called for appropriate remedial measures based on the findings of the relevant authorities.

The organisation also appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Development Control and relevant environmental, health and safety authorities to inspect the area and ensure that applicable development and environmental requirements are observed.

HDAN said cooperation among developers, residents, traders and regulatory authorities would help address concerns associated with construction activities while supporting continued investment and development in Abuja.

The organisation called on AICL to engage with residents, traders and other stakeholders around Bendel Street to discuss the concerns raised and explore practical measures that could improve safety, access and the general environment around the construction area.

“Responsible development means protecting not only the investment being constructed but also the people, businesses, roads, drainage systems and communities surrounding it,” HDAN said.

The organisation added that children, residents and businesses in areas hosting construction projects should be considered in the planning and management of development activities.