The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has introduced a new measure to address the ongoing issue of manhole cover theft along the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) laybys in Lagos. To enhance commuter safety and prevent theft, LAMATA has started replacing metal flood drain covers with wooden alternatives. In a recent video update posted on the agency’s X page, Engr. Kemi Ochei, a representative from LAMATA’s Public Transport Roads department, explained the reasoning behind this change. She noted that although metal grates were initially used to cover the drains, they were frequently stolen due to their scrap value. LAMATA then tried using fiber composite materials, but these too were targeted by thieves who mistook them for steel.
To combat this, LAMATA has now switched to using treated wood for the drain covers at BRT laybys. Since wooden covers hold no scrap value, they are less likely to attract thieves. Ochei explained, “In the past, we used steel gratings, but people would steal them because they had commercial value. We then used fiber composite material, which also was taken because it resembled steel. Now, we’ve switched to treated wood, which has no scrap value and won’t be targeted by thieves.”
LAMATA is optimistic that this new solution will be effective both in the short and long term. Ochei expressed confidence that the wooden covers would “withstand the test of time” and called on the public to actively help protect the infrastructure. This initiative to replace metal manhole covers with treated wooden ones in the BRT laybys in Lagos represents LAMATA’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety and maintain public infrastructure.
Manhole cover theft has been a persistent problem in Lagos, creating dangers for pedestrians and vehicles. In areas like BRT laybys, where buses frequently pick up and drop off passengers, the absence of covers poses even greater risks. By using treated wood, LAMATA has found a cost-effective, sustainable solution that removes the incentive for theft while still providing adequate protection. While wooden covers may not have the longevity of metal ones, their lack of scrap value makes them less appealing to thieves, ensuring they fulfill their intended purpose. Source : https://nairametrics.com/
