Residents of Benin City have expressed frustration over the deteriorating condition of roads in several parts of the Edo State capital, citing the impact on transportation, business activities and daily life.

Many residents said potholes, failed road sections and drainage challenges have continued to make movement difficult, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

The concerns come as the Edo State Government advances plans for a reclamation and urban renewal project in the Government Reservation Area (GRA), aimed at improving infrastructure and restoring affected sections of the district.

While some residents welcomed the proposed intervention, others urged the government to extend road rehabilitation efforts beyond the GRA to include other parts of the city facing similar infrastructure challenges.

Commuters and motorists said poor road conditions have increased travel time, vehicle maintenance costs and safety risks for road users.

Business owners also noted that deteriorating roads have affected customer access and slowed economic activities in some neighbourhoods.

State officials have maintained that the planned reclamation project forms part of broader efforts to improve urban infrastructure, enhance environmental sustainability and address long-standing development concerns within the city.

Residents, however, called for timely execution of road projects and a comprehensive approach that addresses infrastructure needs across Benin City rather than concentrating on selected areas alone.

They expressed hope that ongoing and proposed projects would lead to lasting improvements in transportation, drainage and overall living conditions in the state capital.