The Anambra State government has issued a stern warning against the traditional practice of lighting New Year’s Eve bonfires on tarred roads, citing significant damage to public infrastructure and threatening sanctions against violators.
The Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO) announced a comprehensive monitoring system to identify and penalize individuals and communities engaging in this end-of-year tradition. Managing Director Chuks Nnabuife emphasized that burning tires, wood, and other materials on paved surfaces accelerates road deterioration, leading to cracks that eventually develop into major potholes.
This crackdown comes during a period of substantial infrastructure development across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, particularly over the past two and a half years under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration. The government argues that the substantial investments in road construction and maintenance are undermined by these celebratory practices.
ANCISRO has highlighted the economic implications of road damage, noting that the state commits significant resources to infrastructure development. The agency stresses that road networks are crucial for economic growth and regional development, making their preservation a priority for sustainable progress.
The tradition of lighting bonfires on December 31st has deep cultural roots in the region, with many residents viewing it as an integral part of New Year celebrations. However, authorities now face the challenge of balancing cultural practices with infrastructure preservation, emphasizing that festive celebrations should not compromise public assets.
To enforce this directive, ANCISRO has established surveillance mechanisms to document violations across streets and communities. The agency plans to forward reports of infractions to relevant authorities for appropriate disciplinary action. This approach represents a shift from previous years where the practice went largely unchecked despite its destructive impact.
Community leaders are being called upon to take proactive roles in preventing these activities within their jurisdictions. This engagement of local leadership suggests a strategic approach to enforcement, recognizing the importance of community buy-in for effective implementation of the new measures.
The government’s stance reflects a broader focus on infrastructure preservation under Soludo’s “Solution Government.” The administration has prioritized road development as a cornerstone of its development agenda, viewing well-maintained transportation networks as essential for economic growth and improved living standards.
Transportation experts support the government’s position, noting that heat from bonfires can cause significant damage to road surfaces. The high temperatures can break down the binding materials in asphalt, leading to structural weaknesses that worsen with regular traffic and weather exposure. This deterioration often requires costly repairs, diverting resources from new development projects.
The initiative also aligns with modern urban management practices that prioritize infrastructure sustainability. While cultural celebrations remain important, the government argues that alternative celebration methods can be adopted that don’t compromise public infrastructure.
As the New Year approaches, ANCISRO’s announcement serves as a reminder that development and preservation of public infrastructure require collective responsibility. The agency emphasizes that sustainable progress depends on balancing traditional practices with the need to protect public investments in infrastructure.
The success of this initiative will likely depend on both enforcement effectiveness and public cooperation, as the government works to establish new norms for holiday celebrations that protect valuable public assets while maintaining the festive spirit of the season.
