•With 12-month completion period
As part of measures to improve public transportation system, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Friday commenced the rehabilitation of Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) System.
Our correspondent reports that the project would be delivered by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd (CCECC), at the cost of five billion naira within 12 months period.
Flagging off the rehabilitation works, FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola, in Abuja, noted that the move was to restore the vital transportation infrastructure, which he described as the “life blood of Abuja city”.
Adesola explained taht the Abuja light rail system will play a crucial role in easing transportation challenges and enhancing mobility for residents.
He explained that the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the temporary shutdown of the rail system as part of measures to curb the spread of the virus.
He however, decried that during the period of inactivity, hoodlums vandalised essential equipment of the rail system, describing the development as a “serious setback”.
According to the permanent secretary, said that contracts for the provision of security for the ARMT System have been awarded.
“We are taking stringent measures to safeguard this valuable asset. We will not allow the actions of a few vandals to undermine the progress and potential of this essential public service.
“We will leave no stone unturned in restoring the Abuja Light Rail System to its former glory and ensuring it surpasses its previous performance,” he said.
Furthermore, he explained that the rehabilitation would involve the repair and replacement of damaged equipment, upgrading of facilities, and implementing modern security measures to protect against future threats.
He also assured residents that the process would be expedited without compromising on quality, and “we will soon witness the return of a more efficient and reliable transportation system.
“This is because revitalisation of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit System is not just about repairing physical infrastructure; it is a testament to the resilience of our city and its people.
“It showcases our determination to overcome challenges and our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our citizens.
“It is a demonstration of our government’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for economic growth and social well-being,” he stressed.
Earlier, the Director of Transportation, FCTA, Mr Joseph Akinteye, explained that the ARMT system rehabilitation project, consisting of Lots 1 A and 3, which span 45.245 kilometres (km), would be delivered at five billion naira.
Akinteye added that the ARMT system phase 1, which comprises Lots 1 and 3, made up of 77.775 km out of the six Lots designated by the Transportation Master plan was awarded in 2007.
He, however, said that only Lots 1 A and 3, made up of 45.245 km was completed in 2017, commissioned in 2018, and followed by a trial operation service which lasted for 20 months.
“Unfortunately, the trial service ended abruptly in March 2020, due to the advent of COVID- 19 pandemic and its extent protocols,” he said.
According to him, the rehabilitation, when completed, would bring back the Metro Line services, saying the ripple impacts would be an immense relief to the present unpleasant effects of the fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians and especially the FCT residents.
