The Federal Government announced on Saturday that train services on the Port Harcourt to Aba route would commence operations by the end of March.
This development is part of the broader Port Harcourt-Maiduguri railroad project initiated by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Mr. Fidet Okhiria, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, made this disclosure in Port Harcourt after leading a delegation to test-run the reconstructed Eastern Narrow Gauge Rail line.
Okhiria expressed satisfaction with the progress made, particularly with the ability to ride the locomotive and wagon on the tracks during the test run. He noted that previous visits were hindered due to concerns about track imbalance.
He mentioned that the Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo, directed the connection of the Port Harcourt route to rail and the initiation of the linkage to Onne Port.
Okhiria expressed confidence that the contractor would complete the track adjustments within two weeks, preceding the targeted three weeks for the resumption of train services.
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He aimed to start passenger train services within March and fully resume transporting people from Port Harcourt to Aba by the end of the month.
The project design team has begun designing a rail track to connect the Port Harcourt-Aba railroad line to the Onne seaport.
Collaborations with the port’s terminal manager and leading engineers have commenced to ensure smooth project delivery.
Regarding transport fares, Okhiria mentioned that due to the high cost of diesel, commuters might face increased fares.
However, efforts would be made to cover fuel costs, aiming to generate at least 50% from passengers to sustain operations.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring security along the rail lines and urged communities to protect the infrastructure.
Okhiria cautioned traders against conducting business on the rail lines, as the trains would adhere to fixed schedules and not slow down for goods removal.
