The Lagos State Government is set to revolutionize its public transportation system with the introduction of 50 electric buses for passenger operations in the pilot phase scheduled for 2024. This progressive move comes on the heels of successfully completing the proof of concept, affirming the viability of non-combustible engines as a sustainable alternative to fuel-powered vehicles.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this initiative during the commissioning of the Ikeja overpass flyover, a crucial component along the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line corridor, on December 19, 2023.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the deployment of these electric buses aligns with Lagos State’s commitment to advancing its zero-carbon program, with a vision to transform into an emission-neutral city by 2050. This strategic shift towards electric vehicles represents a significant step in promoting environmental sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional fuel-powered transportation.
In addition to the introduction of electric buses, the state government is set to enhance its public transportation fleet further by incorporating 100 units of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses. These environmentally friendly buses, expected to be received from the Federal Government, will be deployed on designated routes in the first quarter of 2024. Governor Sanwo-Olu further pledged to expand the CNG bus fleet to approximately 1,000 units by the end of the following year, demonstrating a long-term commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly public transportation.
The governor stated, “We remain committed to delivering a transport system that is safe, sustainable, integrated, seamless, and with the potential to drive the socio-economic growth and development of Lagos and the country.” This commitment underscores the importance of a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to transportation infrastructure development in the region.
Simultaneously, Governor Sanwo-Olu marked another milestone by commissioning the 4th flyover along the LRMT Red Line corridor, a significant stride towards completing the 37-kilometer rail network connecting Lagos and Ogun states. The Ikeja Flyover, the largest overpass component of the Red Line project, was inaugurated by Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor, on the invitation of Governor Sanwo-Olu.
This overpass, constructed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), plays a vital role in the T-shape overpasses planned along 10 level crossings along the rail alignment. These structures aim to eliminate pedestrian and vehicular interference on the tracks, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and collisions between trains and vehicles. Furthermore, the Ikeja overpass has successfully addressed vehicular congestion and delays, contributing to the enhancement of free movement in the surrounding area.
The Red Line project, initiated during Governor Sanwo-Olu’s first term, is anticipated to facilitate the daily transportation of over 500,000 passengers once operational. Spanning from Agbado to Oyingbo, the Red Line includes stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and terminates at Oyingbo. Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the completion of ancillary infrastructure for the Red Line marks a crucial step towards the commencement of passenger operations, scheduled to be inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the first quarter of the coming year.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety of Lagosians, emphasizing that the overpass bridges have permanently resolved fatal accidents resulting from collisions at railway crossings. He stated, “When we came on board, we gave our words on the implementation of two rail lines, which are the LRMT Blue and Red lines. In the last four and a half years of our administration, we have prioritized the implementation of an integrated transportation system under the Traffic Management and Transportation pillar of our THEMES+ Agenda.”
The governor expressed pride in the successful delivery of life-enhancing transport infrastructures, such as the first phase of the Blue Line, which is already operational and providing relief to commuters along its corridor. The commissioning of the Ikeja overpass represents one of the five planned overpass bridges for the Red Line alignment, signaling progress and readiness for the imminent commencement of passenger operations.
In conclusion, the Lagos State Government’s initiatives in introducing electric buses, expanding the CNG bus fleet, and completing critical transportation infrastructure underscore its commitment to sustainable, efficient, and environmentally conscious public transportation. These efforts contribute to the realization of a comprehensive integrated transportation system, aligning with the overarching goal of promoting socio-economic growth and development in Lagos and the broader region. As the state moves towards becoming an emission-neutral city by 2050, these strategic measures set a precedent for other urban centers seeking innovative and sustainable solutions to their transportation challenges.
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