Six weeks to its termination on May 29,
the Governor Babatunde Fashola-led government appears convinced that the
first phase of the Blue Line rail being constructed on the
Lagos-Badagry corridor will be test-run this year.
The confidence expressed by the state
government is probably bolstered by the victory of Akinwunmi Ambode in
the April 11, 2015 governorship election. It is believed that the
Ambode’s administration which is to be sworn in on May 29, will be a
continuation of the current, the governor-elect having served in the
government as accountant-general, and now elected on the platform of the
All Progressives Congress (APC), same party as out-going Governor
Fashola.
Lagosians are, however, anxious to see
Ambode translate the promise being made by the out-going administration
into reality before end of the year. The first phase of the blue line
rail system is Mile 2 to Eric Moore near the National Art Theatre,
Iganmu.
Kayode Opeifa, the state commissioner
for transportation who spoke on the multi-billion naira project, which
is a component of the expansion of the Lagos-Badagry expressway from
four lanes to ten, said the rail on completion will change the face of
public transportation in the highly congested commercial city, as it
will significantly enhance ease of over 40 million commuters, and reduce
pressure on road network.
“Our rail project, blue and red lines
are on course. While we are still expecting President Jonathan’s
administration to release the red line corridor for implementation, I am
proud to say that the blue line from Mile 2 to Eric Moore (27km) is
almost completed and will commence test-running this year baring all
odds on the arrival of rolling stocks.”
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