by admin | Aug 23, 2025 | business, government, infrastructure, public transportation, transportation
In July 2024, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, initiated the building of three contemporary bus stations, marking an inaugural effort for the nation’s capital.
The proposal detailed three terminals for the initial stage: one located in the Kugbo region, another in the Mabushi neighborhood, and the last in the Central Business Area.
Although the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals were finished within a year and became operational in June, the terminal located in the Central Business District faced delays because of site-related problems and is now expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Nevertheless, locals have started voicing worries. Following the completion and inauguration of the two multimillion-naira terminals by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in June, they have stayed closed and not been utilized, with no bus or taxi services running.
As stated by the minister, the terminals were designed to improve the security of travelers and passengers, along with offering leisure amenities such as an integrated movie theater.
Wike highlighted that the terminals will combine and enhance FCT’s transport network.
“Although we have kept expanding our road network, unless we connect it with different bus stations, we will not reach our objectives. Our aim is to combine and enhance our transportation system. This will eliminate those so-called one-time offenses that constantly occur,” stated the minister.
He stated that the main objective of the initiative was to improve safety by decreasing the presence of unauthorized vehicles on the roads.
“We are working to remove the ‘single-opportunity’ risk where travelers are exposed to threats from unfamiliar drivers. Thanks to this terminal, passengers will be aware of both the drivers and the vehicles they’re entering, enhancing the safety of their trips,” he said.
Wike also tackled the problem of traffic jams and uncontrolled parking, issues that have persisted in the city for years, stating, “These facilities will offer a secure and structured area for cars to be parked, helping ease traffic on the streets.”
Expressing regret over the lack of this kind of facilities previously, he stated, “It is sad that a city like Abuja has never possessed a bus station. However, we appreciate God as our wishes have now come true.”
The FCT Authority stated that the terminals will be open around the clock, providing travelers with a secure and pleasant area for waiting. Our reporter, who has been following the project’s progress, notes that the terminals feature facilities like dining areas, washrooms, and recreational spaces.
Each of the two appointed terminals includes completely climate-controlled zones where travelers can relax with ease. These spaces also have an integrated movie system and internet connectivity. Moreover, there are specific spots designated for collecting tickets and checking out.
Nevertheless, although they possess remarkable characteristics, locals worry that even several months following their installation, the terminals still stand vacant and their transport issues persist.
What use are stations without bus services? – Locals
The bus stations in Abuja were constructed to enhance city mobility, yet several have been unused since they were finished.
Over a month since the inauguration, locals are expressing worries regarding the lack of functioning bus services. Without established routes, timetables, or personnel, several people are doubting the value of these stations.
A tour of the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals reveals that although the structures are contemporary and solidly constructed, they remain mostly vacant.
These stations, supported by taxpayer funds, have turned into tranquil areas without evidence of real transportation operations.
Inhabitants claim that these structures function more as symbols rather than effective answers to Abuja’s increasing transportation demands.
“It’s insufficient just to cut ribbons; we require buses on the streets. We need financial support for those with limited income. We also need qualified personnel, accurate schedules, and up-to-date information. If you claim to be advancing the city, make sure residents can experience it,” said Mr. Tunde Balogun, a businessman from Wuse.
People who commute every day from suburban areas into the central part of the city are experiencing stress.
Aisha Lawal, a government employee residing in Gwarimpa stated, “These kiosks are merely present—appearing nice yet vacant. There are no buses, no movement, no purpose. What exactly are we commemorating?”
Andrew Chukwuma, a transport operator traveling between Berger and Jabi, shared comparable concerns, stating, “The authorities are constructing terminal facilities, yet where are the buses? We’ve noticed the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals remain closed since they were opened in June. They claim these places are meant for the general population, but there’s absolutely nothing available for us. Travelers endure hardships, and we operators lack an effective structure to rely on.”
People living in regions like Kubwa, Kuje, Lugbe, Karu, and Nyanya still face extended waiting periods, crowded transport, and fluctuating costs.
Blessing Oche, a public official traveling from Lugbe, stated, “I spend hours waiting but still get crammed into packed buses. With no other options available, operators demand exorbitant fares. Simply constructing terminal facilities isn’t sufficient; the government needs to supply proper bus services as well.”
Travelers have also expressed worries regarding security.
An unnamed bank employee recounted a recent experience with a group of thieves, saying, “They stole everything — my phone, computer, and backpack. This is why we require a secure, state-backed transportation system.”
Madam Halima Hashir, who travels from Karu-Nyanya every day, mentioned that her transportation costs amount to N5,500 per day.
“What is my salary?” every day, as she passes the Kugbo terminal, which remains closed. “These terminals aren’t benefiting anyone; they’re just vacant structures while we face difficulties,” she expressed sorrowfully.
Due to the lack of an operational transportation network, numerous locals have no choice but to rely on unsafe and unofficial alternatives.
Outdated buses, delivery motorcycles, and various personal vehicles now dominate the streets, leading to hazardous commuting situations.
Mr. Ejike Hygenus, a former teacher from Kuje, remembered a more favorable period: “In the time of El-Rufai, we had well-maintained and lengthy buses commonly known as El-Rufai buses connecting the outskirts with the city center. They were affordable, dependable, and secure. These days, such services no longer exist—only structures labeled as stations,” he mentioned.
Specialists share their perspectives on future directions
Professionals discuss potential paths ahead
Experts provide insights into next steps
Authorities comment on possible trajectories
Experts offer opinions on what lies ahead
Scholars outline ways to proceed
Experts analyze upcoming strategies
Experts suggest approaches for moving forward
Experts present views on subsequent actions
Experts contribute ideas about the course of action
Former general manager of the Abuja Urban Mass Transit, Mr. Najeeb Mahmoud Abdul Salam, stated that the present circumstances require immediate changes.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, support from donors, better regulatory frameworks, and a renewed focus on strategic planning within the national transportation policy.
He further advocated for improved monitoring and control of the terminals to guarantee secure and efficient service provision.
A public policy specialist, Dr. Adetokunbo Margaret, cautioned that infrastructure not utilized properly could result in a lost opportunity for investment.
What is required at this moment is not additional terminals, but buses traveling on the streets, well-defined pathways, skilled operators, and an effective oversight framework.
She recommended that the private sector could manage it, but the government needed to establish and implement the regulations.
A mobility advisor, Mrs. Ifeoma Onuche, emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork, stating, “These stations shouldn’t merely serve as symbolic initiatives. Where is the cooperation with private transportation providers? What is the transportation plan that dictates how these facilities should function?”
Numerous locals still experience everyday challenges on the roadways. Merchants, pupils, and employees encounter high costs, inconsistent transit options, and increasing security issues.
Trader Chukwuemeka Eze from Nyanya market stated plainly: “It’s similar to constructing hospitals without medical staff. What we require are buses today, not next year.”
Abdullahi Yusuf, who lives in Bwari stated, “With fuel costs still elevated and ride-hailing options being costly for many locals, unofficial transportation networks have stepped in to fill the void—but this comes with significant issues. Vehicles often break down, there are unsafe conditions, and incidents of regular harassment are common during commutes.”
Citizens are demanding swift action, such as the rapid introduction of bus services on heavily used routes, involvement of the private sector in managing terminals, implementation of electronic payment methods for fares, and stricter oversight. They believe that transport should be regarded as an essential community service, rather than merely a symbolic gesture.
As per Mathew Ijaodola, a local from Kubwa, without tangible actions being implemented, Abuja’s stations might stay well-constructed yet underutilized facilities, with the city’s inhabitants still trapped, awaiting not only bus services but also an effective transportation network.
Official from FCTA explains cause of postponement
A representative from the FCT Transport Secretariat, who requested not to be named, cited the procedure of granting terminal operations to private companies as the reason for the delay.
An official stated that the government had chosen for the terminals to be managed by a private organization instead of the transportation department.
He mentioned that the administration was in the midst of hiring a company to manage the terminals and pledged that once the procedure is finished, locals would begin to experience the effects.
The official had earlier stated that the terminals would not be managed by the FCT Transport Secretariat.
“We will entrust it to private companies that will manage it effectively,” the minister stated during the inauguration in June.
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by admin | Aug 15, 2025 | engineering, federal government, funding, government, infrastructure
The central administration has obtained N3.6 billion worth of building machinery provided by the Japanese authorities.
In a press release, the Ministry of Works stated that the machinery provided to the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) would mark a significant step forward in the country’s efforts toward achieving sustainable infrastructure development.
The declaration, signed by the Ministry’s Director of Press, Mohammed Ahmed, cited the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., who stated that “the generous support from Japan moves forward the dream of seamless, secure, and dependable transportation throughout the nation.”
Goronyo stated that roads serve as the vital arteries of Nigeria’s economy and everyday activities, with the machinery marking a significant advancement in their use and maintenance.
Worthed at £3.6 billion (three billion, six hundred million Nigerian naira), the provided machinery is anticipated to enhance FERMA’s ability to repair and restore Nigeria’s extensive highway system.
Goronyo highlighted that the contribution marks the beginning of a new phase in road upkeep, allowing engineers and technical staff to achieve quicker and longer-lasting results.
He further pointed out that Nigeria’s large highway system still plays a crucial role in trade, farming, medical services, and uniting the country, despite ongoing serious upkeep issues.
He also praised the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, who has placed infrastructure at the forefront and positioned it as a major factor in driving economic development through his Renewed Hope Agenda — a government that acknowledges infrastructure as a catalyst for progress.
“We imagine a future where traveling within Nigeria is smooth, safe, and reliable. This kind gesture brings us nearer to turning that dream into truth,” he added.
The President and citizens of Nigeria expressed deep appreciation through Goronyo to the Japanese government for its concrete assistance and steadfast dedication towards Nigeria’s progress.
He called on the management of FERMA and their engineering staff to guarantee that the machinery is utilized to the best of its potential, stating, “This equipment represents a significant resource, and its proper application will demonstrate our dedication to enhancing the standard of living for every Nigerian.”
He ended by pointing out that the installation of the machinery goes beyond a symbolic transfer, representing instead the start of a fresh phase in road upkeep that corresponds with Nigeria’s larger aim of achieving economic growth through improved infrastructure.
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by admin | Apr 12, 2025 | business, indian national news, infrastructure, railroads, railway systems
Anuradhapura [
Sri Lanka
On April 6 (ANI), India provided assistance to
Sri Lanka
The enhancement of the railway system is anticipated to substantially bolster the nation’s economy. With the modernization of the rail line extending from Maho to Omanthai over a distance of 128 kilometers, passengers can expect quicker journey times, greater cargo volume capability, and enhanced security.
During an interview with ANI, Hari Mohan Gupta, who serves as the Chairperson and Managing Director of Ircon International Limited, stated that India’s support holds substantial importance for the economically struggling country.
We’ve introduced the contemporary track layout that we offer in India.
Railway
And now that its construction is complete, the top speed will reach 120 km per hour, with an operational speed set at 100 km per hour. Additionally, the cargo-carrying capacity will extend up to 20 tonnes. This enhancement will significantly boost the region’s economy.
Sri Lanka
As stated by Hari Mohan Gupta.
These enhancements are anticipated to positively affect tourism, a crucial segment of the industry.
Sri Lanka
The improved railway line will similarly enhance the local community’s welfare, contributing positively to their quality of life.
There will be significant excitement due to the reduction in travel time, cutting down journey duration by approximately three hours from the north.
Sri Lanka
into the neighboring sections of
Sri Lanka
As a result, tourism is expected to experience significant growth.
Sri Lanka
is renowned for its tourism and holds a special place in the hearts of Indians.
Sri Lanka
are highly mythologically quite enjoyable recollections. Therefore, this will be advantageous.
Sri Lanka
“Since they share a lot publicly, their overall well-being will be quite excellent,” he stated.
Ircon International Limited, an Indian state-owned enterprise, carried out the project, which received financial support from the Ministry of External Affairs. The enhancement was conducted in two stages, spanning from January 2023 to September 2024.
“The project spans 128 kilometers in total. We divided the execution into two segments: first, from Maho to Omanthai. The segment between Anuradhapura and Omanthai covers 63 kilometers; we commenced upgrading this section in January 2023 and completed it in July of the same year. Following that, we moved on to tackle the stretch from Maho to Anuradhapura, measuring at 65 kilometers. Work for this part began in January 2024,” he stated.
“When we completed it in September 2024, this line of credit, provided by the Indian government’s Ministry of External Affairs, came to an end. The previous track structure was in deplorable condition due to its age, with numerous damaged rails as well,” he stated.
Gupta mentioned that following the initial installation, the tracks became corroded and produced loud noises. The newly constructed rails, aided by India, will address this issue.
Sri Lanka
n economy.
He mentioned that as it aged, it became corroded and developed fish plates at the joints, causing considerable noise. Its top speed was around 60-65 km/h with a load-carrying limit of up to 17 tons. To improve this, they upgraded the system by installing concrete sleepers along with 60 kg rails featuring flash-butt welded joints and added expansion joints for switches.
“Since 2009, Ircon has been present here. It’s worth noting that the route, specifically the northern section, was part of
Sri Lanka
,” he added.
He added that
PM Modi
and Dissanayake’s launch will be advantageous for the local community.
Sri Lanka
.
As we have now finished these 128 kilometers of work, I am immensely pleased that today the Honorable Prime Minister of India along with the Honorable President will be involved in related celebrations.
Sri Lanka
have consented to this project
Sri Lanka
To the government of the nation
Sri Lanka
“They offer these initiatives with the aim of improving public welfare and enhancing their overall happiness,” he stated.
PM Modi
and
Sri Lanka
On Sunday, President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka will join with others to initiate the signaling system for the Maho-Anuradhapura rail route—a venture backed by the Indian government—and will simultaneously commence work on the railway tracks for the Maho-Omanthai line. (ANI)
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by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | business, infrastructure, railroads, railway systems, trains
New Delhi [India], April 3 (ANI): A compliance review of ‘Functioning of’
Mancheswar Carriage Repair Workshop
The East Coast Railway has noted that the estimates for coaches requiring POH (periodical overhaul) have been unrealistic, with annual revisions consistently being reduced.
Audit Report No. 2 of 2025 titled ‘Compliance Audit Report: Union Government ( Railways)’ has been presented to both chambers of the legislature.
Parliament
on Thursday.
The statement mentioned that the Audit Report includes findings from the compliance audit regarding the functioning of the operations.
Mancheswar Carriage Repair Workshop
In the Eastern Coastal Railway project and the development of the fifth and sixth lines from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kurla Station under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Railways, extending through until the fiscal year 2022-23.
Based on audit findings, the Carriage Repair Workshop located in Mancheswar (CRW/MCS), under the Eastern Coast Railway (ECoR), came into existence in November 1981 with the aim of conducting maintenance repairs on railway carriages. Initially, this workshop could handle up to 45 monthly periodical overhauls; however, this capability expanded to accommodate 100 coach overhauls each month starting from fiscal year 2003-04.
Between 2008 and 2016, the workshop underwent upgrades aimed at increasing its monthly output capacity to handle up to 150 coaches. However, despite this enhanced capability, the actual production levels for the years spanning 2016-17 through 2022-23 fluctuated between 86 and 113 coaches each month.
An audit was carried out to evaluate if the objectives for the workshop were established according to the real POH generated by the facility and met within the designated timeframe. The review also examined challenges concerning increasing the workshop’s operational capacity as well as overseeing equipment and inventory management.
The audit noted that the forecasts for coaches scheduled for Periodical Overhaul (POH) were unrealistic and consistently revised downwards each year. Additionally, there were delays in submitting coaches for POH from the depots, and once sent, the workshops required up to three years to complete these overhauls instead of adhering to the stipulated period of 15-20 days, according to a statement released by the Office of Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
The review further noted that the highest number of delays occurred in the Coach Body Repair Shop.
According to the statement, 191 coaches remained unused for durations between 10 days and 171 days, totaling 6,558 idle coach-days. Additionally, there were 43 cases where the idling period exceeded 50 days.
In August 2012, the Railway Board instructed all Zonal Railways to track coach failures occurring within 100 days after POH and implement corrective measures accordingly.
During the February 2020 meeting of Chief Works Engineers, PCMEs from zonal railways were instructed to guarantee that the standard of work completion remains exceptionally high. Quality metrics such as maintenance checks for POH coaches must be overseen by CWE/CWM personnel. Additionally, an investigation into the underlying causes of all reported issues should be conducted, followed by appropriate corrective actions.
The audit noted that the number of coaches failing within 100 days post-overhaul were 103 in 2018-19 and 139 in 2019-20.
According to the statement, out of 3402 coaches refurbished between 2020 and 2023, 131 coaches malfunctioned within 100 days of undergoingPOH.
The actual POH capacity of the workshop was not accurately reported when communicating with the Railway Board. Even though the POH capability increased to handle 150 coaches monthly starting in 2016, additional expansion projects valued at Rs 181.78 crore were initiated between 2018-19 and 2022-23. This occurred without evaluating whether the current facilities could support these upgrades or predicting future needs effectively.
The audit found that the workshop’s budget was not aligned with the unit costs specified in the code guidelines. Additionally, it did not match the projected requirements for coach overhauls, resulting in an inflated budget.
As per the release, the ownership of coaches at ECoR exhibits significant discrepancies within depot records, zonal headquarters, and the Integrated Coach Management System (ICMS), primarily because live data isn’t being entered.
“The four high-value machines, valued at Rs 4.15 crore, have remained unused for several years because of intrinsic flaws in the machinery. Insufficient acquisition of resources led to stock shortages, causing repeated complaints from departments unable to obtain necessary supplies,” it further stated.
The tracking of POH activities via the Workshop Information System (WISE) app proved ineffective. The statement noted multiple discrepancies between the data recorded in WISE and the manual entries.
Regarding the development of the 5th and 6th lines from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kurla Station, the audit report indicated that the guidelines set forth by the Railway Board (RB) in June 2008—requiring minimal accommodation provisions solely to fulfill operational needs along with comprehensive estimates accompanied by detailed explanations—were disregarded during the preparation of the Detailed Estimate.
This resulted in an inaccurate Detailed Estimate prepared by Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES), causing delays in its approval by the Railway Board (RB).
The Baseline Socio-Economic (BSE) survey for Phase I work had still not been finalized as of September 2023, over 11 years past the initial target date.
Moreover, the Project Affected Persons (PAPs) did not receive rehabilitation in January 2024 because the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) was unable to finish the building projects in Kilburn and Nahur.
This caused delays in obtaining the land. The failure to follow legal requirements and RBI’s guidelines regarding minimal land requisition led to an overestimation during the detailed cost estimation phase. Additionally, issues with coordination between RITES and state government entities were observed. Such problems exacerbated delays in both the BSE survey and land procurement processes. As of the report date, the land acquisition procedure for Phase II projects extending from Parel to CSMT remained in its early stages.
“The construction contracts were issued without having approved designs and drawings, cleared sites, among others, resulting in delays in completing the work. The audit also noted cases where electrical and S&T materials remained idle because contracts were awarded before confirming that the sites were properly prepared,” the report stated.
The statement indicated inadequate coordination among Zonal Railways, noting that the suggestion to transfer land from Western Railway (WR) to Central Railway (CR) had been sent by CR to WR back in December 2015; however, up until January 2024, WR still hadn’t completed this land transfer. (ANI)
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