Port Harcourt-Aba Train Services to Begin Operation in March: FG

The Federal Government has announced that train services on the Port Harcourt to Aba route will commence operation by the end of March.

The project, which is part of the larger Port Harcourt-Maiduguri railroad project initiated by President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, is being managed by the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC).

During a recent visit to Port Harcourt, NRC Managing Director, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the reconstruction of the Eastern Narrow Gauge Rail Line.

He mentioned that workers are currently putting the finishing touches on the tracks to ensure full train operation can begin within the month.

Okhiria stated that the Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo, has directed that the Port Harcourt route be connected to rail and initiate the linkage of Onne Port.

He also expressed confidence that the contractor would complete the ‘tampering’ of the railroad within two weeks, preceding the targeted three weeks for the train services to resume.

In terms of transportation costs, Okhiria acknowledged that due to the current high cost of diesel, commuters might have to pay higher fares than what was obtainable before.

He mentioned that the corporation aims to cover at least 50 percent of fuel costs through passenger fares.

Additionally, the government is collaborating with security agencies to ensure the safety of the rail line and the linkage of security devices from the trains to the control room.

Communities are encouraged to protect the infrastructure being put in place for their benefit.

In a final note, Okhiria cautioned traders against conducting business on the rail lines, as trains would no longer slow down for them to remove their goods before passing.

It is crucial for the public to be aware of this and adapt accordingly to ensure the smooth operation of the new train services.