The Ondo State Ministry of Transport has introduced new traffic regulations along the Arakale axis of Akure in a bid to reduce congestion, improve road safety and ensure the smooth flow of vehicles along the busy corridor.

The measures, which take immediate effect, cover restrictions on U-turns, designated hours for truck loading and offloading, as well as the deployment of State Traffic Control (STC) officers to monitor compliance.

Under the new directive, vehicles travelling from the Isikan axis towards Arakale are prohibited from making U-turns at Ori Eguru Junction.

Affected motorists are directed to proceed to Aromed Junction to make their U-turns.

The Ministry said the restriction is aimed at minimising conflicting vehicle movements, preventing unnecessary traffic obstruction and improving traffic flow along the corridor.

In addition, the Ministry has introduced designated time windows for the loading and offloading of goods by trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles along the Arakale axis.

The approved periods are from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. in the morning, and from 5:00 p.m. until dawn in the evening and overnight.

All truck operators, distributors, shop owners, business owners and other stakeholders operating along the axis are required to observe the designated periods strictly.

Loading and offloading activities outside the approved time windows are prohibited under the directive.

The Ministry advised affected businesses and operators to plan their logistics and commercial activities accordingly to avoid traffic disruption and potential enforcement action for non-compliance.

As part of efforts to ensure effective implementation, State Traffic Control officers have been deployed along the Arakale route.

Their responsibilities include traffic control, monitoring compliance with the new directives and facilitating the orderly movement of vehicles.

All motorists and other road users are expected to cooperate with the deployed officers, obey their lawful instructions and comply with the traffic-control measures put in place.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Olumuyiwa Ogunyemi reiterated that the measures are intended to protect road users, reduce congestion and improve traffic management along the Arakale axis.

He urged all affected persons and stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the regulations and comply fully, warning that violations may attract appropriate enforcement action and penalties in accordance with applicable laws.

The Ministry called on motorists, commercial drivers, transport unions, truck operators, business owners and residents to support the successful implementation of the measures in the collective interest of the public.