The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced its plans to allocate N5 billion for the restoration of essential equipment within the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) system, which suffered vandalism by miscreants following its temporary shutdown due to COVID-19 containment measures.
Mr. Olusade Adesola, the FCT permanent secretary, revealed this during the launch of the transportation infrastructure restoration in Abuja on Friday.
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd (CCECC) will undertake the project and complete it within a span of 12 months. Adesola emphasized the significance of the light rail as a crucial transportation lifeline for Abuja residents, addressing the challenges they face.
The vandalism inflicted on the rail system’s equipment was described as a considerable setback to the administration. However, Adesola assured that a more effective and reliable transportation system will soon return to the FCT.
He explained that the revitalization of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit System is not just about restoring physical infrastructure; it symbolizes the city’s resilience and its people. It also showcases the government’s dedication to fostering an environment that promotes economic growth and social well-being.
Adesola further conveyed that security contracts for the light rail system had already been awarded, and stringent measures would be implemented to safeguard the asset and prevent further damage by a few vandals. The rehabilitation project will focus on Lots 1A and 3 rail sections, entailing equipment repair and replacement, facility upgrades, and the implementation of modern security measures to mitigate future threats.
Mr. Joseph Akinteye, the Director of Transportation at FCTA, shared that the Phase 1 of the Abuja light rail system, comprising Lots 1 and 3 with a distance of 77.775 km, was initially contracted in 2007. Yet, only Lots 1A and 3, totaling 45.245 km, were completed in 2017, inaugurated in 2018, and operated on a trial basis for 20 months.
Unfortunately, the trial service was abruptly halted in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its related protocols. Akinteye mentioned that once the rehabilitation is finalized, the Metro Line services will resume.
The Managing Director of CCECC, Mr. Wang Xixue, emphasized the significance of restoring the vandalized components of the ARMT system to foster transportation system development in the FCTA.
He pledged swift completion of the rehabilitation, including the restoration of Lot 1A and Lot 3 components, obstacle clearance, and paving the way for the recommencement of the light rail system’s commercial operations. Xixue underscored CCECC’s commitment to advancing the public railway transport system’s development in collaboration with stakeholders.
