Kaduna State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming urban transportation through the Kaduna Transit Project, a...
The Director-General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim, stated this when he led the management teams of KADSTRA and Kaduna Line on a courtesy visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, at his palace in Zaria.
Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim said the visit was to seek royal blessings, as well as the support and cooperation of traditional institutions for the successful implementation of the project.
He explained that the initiative is a strategic effort by the state government to improve the quality of life of citizens, enhance economic productivity, and promote sustainable urban development.
According to him, the project includes the development of about 50 kilometres of transit corridors within Kaduna metropolis, as well as the construction of modern terminals and the expansion of routes connecting Kaduna to the Abuja city centre.
The Director-General added that plans are underway to extend similar projects to Zaria, including a proposed 35-kilometre monorail system that will link key areas such as Shika and major institutions, in line with modern transportation standards.
He further disclosed that about 200 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses have been procured to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal and reduce transportation costs for residents.
However, Engr. Ibrahim identified inadequate CNG refuelling infrastructure as a major challenge affecting full operations, particularly in Zaria, and called for increased collaboration to address the issue.
He revealed that the state government has so far subsidised the transport system with over one point three billion naira, benefiting more than one point four million passengers since the commencement of operations.
The Director-General noted that the initiative, initially designed as a six-month free service, was extended due to its positive impact on the populace.
In his remarks, a Designing Consultant Mr. Theodor Regina, observed that Kaduna requires a modern transport system to address congestion caused by informal transport services such as tricycles and motorcycles, drawing lessons from cities in Southeast Asia.
Responding, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and capable of transforming transportation in the state.
The Emir recalled the efficiency of rail transport in the past and stressed the need to revive such systems to enhance safety and reduce road accidents caused by overloading and poor regulation.
He expressed optimism that with proper planning and commitment, Kaduna State can achieve a modern and efficient transportation system comparable to global standards.
The Director-General was accompanied on the visit by KBRT specialists and management staff of KADSTRA and Kaduna Line.
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