Abeokuta — Construction giant, Julius Berger Plc, has finally returned and commenced work on the abandoned bridge in Ota, Ogun State, and the road project, following release of N1.5 billion from the 2009 Appropriation Act.

It will be recalled that Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Dimeji Bankole, and House Committee Chairman on Works, Honourable Chuma Nzeribe, visited the bridge a forthnight ago, to intimate users of the road that N1.5 billion had been released to Julius Berger, to commence work on the project abandoned over two years ago, as a result of lack of budgetary provision.

Bankole, who expressed dismay on the untold hardship road users were subjected to, ensured that the project was provided for in the 2009 budget and was instrumental to release of the fund.

Bankole said with the fund already released and ongoing negotiation on variation, the bridge and road project would be completed by the end of the year.

He apealed to motorists, commuters and members of the public to bear the inconvenience the renewed construction was likely to engender.

Similarly, Nzeribe said approval for additional funding for the project is in the pipeline, as the project is a critical one in the 7-Point Agenda of President Umaru Yar'Adua, in the area of infrastructure.