The Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project, popularly known as *Kaduna Connect*, has engaged representatives of local governmen...
The stakeholder consultation was held at the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA) in Kaduna.
It brought together LGA representatives, members of the Project Management Unit (PMU) and project consultants, with some participants joining virtually.
Participants were briefed on the project’s objectives, proposed service network, implementation arrangements and current status, as well as how the BRT system differs from the conventional bus services currently operating in Kaduna.
In his welcome address, the Project Director, Dr. Yamusa Bello Yamusa, emphasised the vital role of local governments in the planning, coordination and delivery of the project.
He noted that their proximity to communities positions them to disseminate project information, raise public awareness, and relay concerns relating to existing transport routes, informal transport operations, accessibility and local economic activities.
Dr. Yamusa called for sustained dialogue to build public confidence in the project.
Also speaking, the Project Coordinator, Dr. Aliyu Usman, disclosed that the €110 million projec, financed by the French Development Agency (AFD), will deliver approximately 25 kilometres of dedicated BRT infrastructure from Kawo to Refinery Junction, comprising 30 stations, two terminals, a bus depot and a fleet of 120 buses.
He explained that Phase One will cover about 17 kilometres, from Kawo to Command Junction, while Phase Two will extend the corridor to Refinery Junction.
Engr.Aliyu added that the engineering design is nearing completion, the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is being finalised, and the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is under development.
The Deputy Team Lead of the Project Management and Operational Design (PMOD) consultant, Engr. Mahmoud Dansarki, outlined the key features of BRT, including dedicated lanes, prepaid fares, priority at junctions, level boarding and intelligent transport systems.
He said the proposed network of about five routes would serve Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Igabi and Chikun LGAs.
On resettlement, the Community and Social Development Specialist, Dr. Abdulkadir Jafar, explained that affected persons, businesses and vendors would be identified and engaged in clusters, with provisions for relocation and compensation to ensure fairness and transparency before construction commences.
The LGA representatives raised questions on passenger safety at stations, enforcement of the dedicated lanes, bus maintenance and provision for small traders.
Responding, the project team explained that speed bumps and pedestrian crossing bridges would be incorporated into the design, while physical barriers would separate BRT lanes from general traffic. KADSTRA will set the regulations, while the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Authority (KASTLEA) will enforce them.
The team further assured participants that private firms would maintain the fleet through a fully equipped workshop, preventive servicing and technology-based monitoring, while space for vendors would be considered at the terminals and depot. Participants recommended that pedestrian bridges be sited close to stations.
Participants were encouraged to channel further comments and recommendations through the project’s designated communication channels. They commended the PMU for organising the engagement.
Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT), popularly known as Kaduna Connect, is a flagship initiative of the Kaduna State Government to provide safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable urban mobility through a modern Bus Rapid Transit system across the Kaduna metropolis.
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