For years, residents of Kuru in Jos South Local Government Area have endured the nightmare of a narrow, steep, and flood-prone crossing that links three major wards. But relief is finally on the horizon, thanks to the intervention of the Executive Chairman of Jos South, Hon Silas Patrick Dung, who has commenced the construction of a three-celled box culvert at the heart of the community.
The project, which is currently ongoing, is designed to replace a dangerously inadequate drainage cover that has turned the road into a dangerous trap for commuters, motorcyclists, and pedestrians alike.
The culvert connects three wards: Dahwol Vwana in Kuru ‘B’, Dahwol Chwaha in Kuru ‘A’, and Kushe ward. Residents say the road is a critical link, and without it, movement becomes a costly detour.
“This box culvert, they are putting here, it’s very important to us, because it is linking the entire wards of Kuru,” says Mr. John Mandung, the Community Development Chairman of Dahwol Vwana.
According to him, the old structure, described as a small cover, sat on a steep slope that made passage treacherous in both dry and rainy seasons. When it rains, the situation becomes catastrophic. Water easily overflows the small cover, cutting off entire communities.
Residents say the steepness has also made transport of goods prohibitively expensive. Worse still, the route has recorded severe injuries and near death experiences.
With the new culvert currently under construction, residents are optimistic that the nightmare will soon end. Meanwhile, the contractor, Transparent Construction Limited, has also assured that the new design will significantly reduce the road’s steepness and make passage smooth.
Residents say they are grateful that the Jos South Local Government chairman has finally heeded their cries.
Work is ongoing at the site, and residents are hopeful that the completed culvert will bring lasting relief, safety, and economic respite to thousands of people in Kuru and surrounding villages.
Christy Pam Makut
Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Jos South Local Government Council.
