As the launch of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) draws closer, Lagos state Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu personally oversaw a thorough test run of the train, on Saturday meticulously examining the tracks and rail corridors in preparation for the formal commissioning of the infrastructure, scheduled for next Thursday.
This official update was shared through a statement published on the Lagos State Government’s website.
The statement detailed Governor Sanwo-Olu’s involvement in the test run, joined by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, members of the state cabinet, and invited journalists. Together, they embarked on a test ride of the Red Line train, starting their journey at Ikeja Mega Station precisely at 2:23 PM.
The ride included brief stops at Agege Station and Iju Station before concluding at 2:38 PM, encompassing a total travel time of 15 minutes. This inaugural ride marked the operational debut of the Red Line train since its arrival.
Throughout the journey, Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Hamzat conducted a meticulous inspection of the train’s features, with particular emphasis on elements crucial for passenger comfort and safety, including the air conditioning system, handrails, cushioned seating, and comprehensive safety measures within the wagons.
After the thorough review, Governor Sanwo-Olu affirmed the readiness of the rail line for its formal inauguration, underlining the significance of maintaining unobstructed rail paths and preventing unauthorized access.
He also addressed the challenges posed by pedestrian interference and illicit activities along the tracks, pledging to implement robust enforcement measures and collaborate with the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) to install physical barriers to mitigate disruptions.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged residents to adhere strictly to the regulations governing the use of the rail line, emphasizing its primary purpose for transportation rather than commercial activities. He also assured the public of regular train services, with intervals of every 15 minutes, aimed at enhancing safety along the railway.
Additionally, the statement noted that the formal commissioning of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) project by President Tinubu on Thursday would include the official launch of the 37-kilometer rail line.
This infrastructure, constructed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), spans from Agbado, bordering Ogun State, to Oyingbo in central Lagos, encompassing all stations and associated facilities.
