by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | General
Actor Park Han-byul revealed his new role as a parent following his relocation from Seoul to Jeju.
In the TV CHOSUN program “Vietnam Heo Young-man’s Baekban Travel,” which was broadcast on the 10th, he traveled to Dangjin along with Park Han-byeol, serving as the entrance point for western coastal journeys.
Park Han-byul, having traveled to Dangjin—a place known for its beautiful scenery and rich cuisine—showcased his appeal as a celebrity in the entertainment field under the title of “original charming actor.”
Park Han-byul, who has been away from public life for seven years, asked, “How have you been?” Jeju Island marks its seventh anniversary. I am taking care of my children; they are still quite young—eight and four-years-old,” she mentioned, showcasing her kids on YouTube.
During hectic times as a mom, Heo Young-man questioned, “Hadn’t the four-year-old been crying when they left in the morning?” while Park Han-byeol remarked, “It doesn’t really matter who leaves or enters for the second child.” If someone offers you candy, you’re the kind of person who tends to go after it.
Park Han-byul grinned naively, stating, “This is my first bowl of kalguksu today, so I’ve been dreaming about it all night.” The two remained silent as they breathed in the storm. Park Han-myung said, “It’s a clean and pleasant ending. He enjoyed it with warm broth.”
Park Han-byul filmed the movie a couple of days back. I collaborated with Park Ho-san and Park Si-hoo. I am also part of the Park family, so I mentioned ‘Three Parks’.
It was also the fifth most attractive celebrity during pregnancy. Park Han-byul felt awkward when she said, “I haven’t heard it in a long time.” Park Han-byul, who became popular online alongside Koo Hye-sun and Lee Ju-yeon, gained significant attention at that time.
Park Han-byul mentioned, “All of a sudden, an average student turned into a celebrity over night. Everybody knew me once I stepped onto the subway. As I walked past the carriage, I observed everything. Everyone stared at me and said, ‘I don’t know how to react.’” Heo Young-man remarked, “But if you hadn’t been among the top five most attractive men, you would have received such attention,” praising her looks.
That’s very beautiful,” said the restaurant owner Heo Young-man. “I’m tired of hearing that so often,” he added, but Park Han-byul might say, “I can’t tire of being attractive for the rest of my life.
Park Han-byul said, “She looked nice as a kid in photos from her youth, but she began working as a fashion model during high school. Following some appearances in music videos, she officially launched her acting career in 2003 with the film ‘Girls’ Ghost Story.'”
Numerous renowned actors appeared in “Girls’ Ghost Stories.” The show, known as the gateway to stardom for talents like Choi Kang-hee, Oh Yeon-seo, and Song Ji-hyo, was highlighted. Heo Young-man questioned, “Generally, when you spend an extended period shooting a film, don’t you lose track of everything else?”
Park Han-byul stated, “During the filming of the movie, I continuously heard the noise of moving a chair. When I encountered a ghost, I thought it would be a huge success, so I stood at the entrance of the corridor hoping to catch the sound. Regrettably, I never heard it,” he remembered.
Park Han-byul, known for her viral dance with J-Black, invited Heo Young-man to join her, asking “Can you dance with me?” However, Heo responded with “Call the ambulance,” as he recorded the clip showcasing his lack of dancing ability, which made people laugh.
When questioned about his usual summer meals during hot days, Park Han-byul responded with “I eat samgyetang,” while Heo Young-man added, “In this area, people mostly eat eel.” Park Han-byul then mentioned, “To be honest, I’m not very fond of eating eel. In fact, I used to avoid it completely. However, I once consumed eels that were over 1 meter long during ‘The Law of the Jungle.’ The eels were so thick they resembled an arm, yet after returning to South Korea, I lost my appetite for them entirely.”
Luckily, Park Han-byul was taken aback by the flavor of fresh water eels, which was entirely unlike the eel I consumed in the jungle. “I don’t really dislike many scents,” he remarked.
shyun@SANGGRALOKA.COM
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[Roundup] Heo Sung-tae experienced panic attacks because of his fame… 52 fan café members (what were you doing when you spent time together) [SC Review]
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Han Sung-joo has temporarily halted her involvement in releasing personal videos featuring Kim Yu-na and her young partner after 14 years of such activity [SCinStar]
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Jeong Ae-ri, your time has come. Today marks the 11th anniversary.
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Kim Min-kyung and Yoo Min-sang saw a motel during an urgent news report.
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Uh-oh, Uhm Jung-hwa isn’t aware that the apple-themed outfits arrived late for the reveal… I apologize.
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Back alley, I went to the restroom once more. Shinji ♡ I’ll return shortly to talk about the letter “Happy” (Kkondaehee).
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Lee Ha-nee declines to reveal her upper body “I removed a lot” → Mrs. Cannabis
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | healthcare and medicine, illness, infectious diseases, news, public health
Released on, Aug. 19 – August 19, 2025 at 3:04 PM
The first confirmed case at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Attock was brought to Islamabad from Dubai on August 15, 2025, according to official reports.
Health officials mentioned that the individual showed signs of monkeypox when he arrived at the airport, leading basic health staff to immediately send him to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for additional assessment.
On August 18, the National Institutes of Health formally verified that the individual had been infected with monkeypox, and he is now undergoing home quarantine with medical oversight to avoid additional transmission.
Monkeypox is an uncommon virus that was first identified in monkeys and subsequently emerged in West Africa following the 1970s. In the past, the majority of infections were reported within Africa, although instances have also been recorded in Europe and the United States.
Specialists explained that monkeypox transmits through direct interaction and is less infectious than COVID-19. It can spread through damaged skin, airborne particles, or exposure to the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Common signs generally emerge between 7 and 14 days after exposure, featuring symptoms such as fever, head discomfort, joint soreness, tiredness, enlarged glands, and skin eruptions that often begin on the facial area before spreading throughout the body.
The virus may also spread via unguarded sexual activity, although not every individual acquires it in this manner. Officials recommend practicing physical separation and good sanitation to reduce the chances of getting infected.
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | indian national news, news, politics, politics and government, politics and law
Dhaka, Aug. 19 — The National Citizen Party (NCP) has expelled its Joint Member Secretary, Mahin Sarkar, on charges of violating party discipline.
The decision was taken at the directive of the party’s Convener Nahid Islam and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, said an NCP press release issued on Monday.
As per the announcement, the deportation decree becomes effective immediately and will stay in place indefinitely.
Inside sources mentioned that Mahin Sarkar has declared his intention to run for the position of General Secretary (GS) in the forthcoming Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) elections, as part of the group headed by Jamaluddin Muhammad Khalid, who serves as the convenor of the Swadhin Bangladesh Chhatra Sangsad.
The NCP leadership described his move as a serious breach of organizational discipline and took prompt action against him.
by admin | Aug 25, 2025 | indian national news, music, music and lyrics, musicians, news
Kathmandu, Aug. 19 — Veteran poet and musician Prem Binod Nandan has passed away at the age of 90. He breathed his last on Sunday night while undergoing treatment at Chitwan Medical College Teaching Hospital.
For many years, Nandan struggled with breathing problems. He joined the world of literature in 1954 through his poetry book ‘Jhataro,’ followed by numerous publications such as ‘Anjali’ (1966), ‘Sapnibata Byunjhera’ (1966), ‘Bipanika Pailaharu’ (1955), ‘Ainabhitrako Aakash’ (2006), ‘Siddharthako Grahatyag’ (2017), and ‘Patram Pushpam’ (2020).
A piece of his work was also chosen as one of the leading ten submissions in the nationwide anthem competition.
He previously held the position of chairman and consultant at Narayani Kala Mandir. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, such as the Chhinnalata Geet Puraskar (1997), Chisap Prativa Puraskar (1995), Chisap Krishna Kumari Gurung Puraskar (2007), Narayani Pragya Puraskar (2021), and Rastriya Srasta Samman (2020).
by admin | Aug 24, 2025 | business, government, internet access, news, politics
Released on, Aug. 19 — August 19, 2025 at 3:56 PM
Quetta – For the last two weeks, mobile internet access has been cut off throughout Balochistan, leading to significant challenges for students, independent workers, and e-commerce ventures. This interruption keeps affecting everyday activities, with no complete recovery expected yet.
As per local officials, the shutdown has been implemented because of safety issues and will continue until August 31. Authorities state that this action was taken to maintain public peace in critical regions of the province.
Residents highlight significant difficulties, particularly for students who cannot participate in virtual lessons, as well as independent workers whose income relies on consistent internet connectivity. Numerous individuals have urged the authorities to provide different options or limited recovery of services.
The Balochistan High Court has acknowledged the matter and instructed officials to review the complete prohibition. The judiciary has mandated the resumption of internet access in regions without any security risk, seeking to achieve harmony between safety measures and user accessibility.
Even though the court has issued instructions, complete internet connectivity is still not available across most areas of the province, resulting in numerous people being cut off from digital resources. Those impacted are calling on officials to take immediate action and explore localized approaches rather than implementing broad-scale restrictions.
by admin | Aug 24, 2025 | cricket, international cricket, sports
Kathmandu, August 19 – In the 18th game of the Top End T20 tournament held at Cazalys Arena in Palmerston, Nepal scored an impressive total of 180 for seven against Hobart Hurricanes Academy in their 20-over innings. After choosing to bat first following a successful toss, Nepal’s inning experienced moments of momentum as players from different positions contributed effectively.
Kushal Bhurtel started the scoring with an aggressive 27 from 20 balls, hitting four boundaries before being caught by Marcus Bean. Aasif Sheikh then contributed 29 off 28 deliveries, though he was run out by Nivethan Radhakrishnan when the score was 77-2, which disrupted the flow of play. Bhim Sharki scored 18 runs, while team captain Rohit Paudel was bowled for 9 as Nepal’s opening batsmen found it difficult to maintain consistent progress.
Nepal’s star performer was Aarif Sheikh, who scored 33 runs from 26 deliveries. Alongside lower-order batsman Lokesh Bam, who stayed not out with 25 runs from only 11 balls, they helped Nepal surpass the 180-run target.
For Hobart Hurricanes Academy, Radhakrishnan was the pick of the bowlers with 2-20 in his four overs. Raf MacMillan also claimed two wickets for 43 runs, while Marcus Bean, Bradley Hope, and Gabe Bell took one wicket each, providing some breakthroughs at crucial intervals.
The Nepalese men’s senior squad suffered their third consecutive loss in the series during an encounter held in Darwin, Australia, on Monday, when they were beaten by Melbourne Stars Academy by 31 runs after aiming to score 176 runs at TIO Stadium.
by admin | Aug 24, 2025 | aviation, cars, flying, technology, technology trends
August 19, Nepal – Excitement is growing across social media platforms and emerging websites in Nepal, where anticipation builds around the upcoming NADA Auto Show 2025 in Kathmandu. The event is set to feature a flying vehicle, officially referred to as an eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. This groundbreaking innovation, part of the broader concept called Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), represents a major leap toward next-generation transport solutions. Such advancements appear crucial for Nepal due to its challenging terrain.
Exhibition and execution are quite different things. The opportunities it unlocks are exciting, while the path to operation is challenging. Meanwhile, a nuanced understanding of this novel technology, its developmental impacts and potential implementation challenges may turn expectations into reality.
Global landscape
AAM signifies a remarkable shift in aviation technology, with the potential to revolutionise the aviation sector. It can operate at lower altitude and shorter range, requires minimal infrastructure and maintenance, making it well-positioned to deliver cleaner, safer, quieter, flexible and cost-effective transport solutions compared to conventional means.
More than 267 cities and areas spanning 63 nations are either implementing or testing AAM programs. Commercial deployments are anticipated in countries including the United States, China, South Korea, France, Japan, and Saudi Arabia by 2026.
A wide variety of eVTOL aircraft types have already been developed. Alongside the setting up of vital infrastructures, such as vertiports, is also gaining pace. As of February 2025, 1,504 vertiports are planned globally, a sharp rise from 1,004 in September 2024, with China accounting for over 50 percent of all projects.
Leading aviation authorities of the world released a joint AAM roadmap in June 2025 to guide certification, coordination, regulation and social acceptance of air taxis and drone operations. South Korean company OPPAV’s manned-unmanned eVTOL ran a successful flight test in 2023 and Chinese Ehang’s EH216-S received certification for passenger use. This underscores the global momentum towards pilotless air mobility. Market forecasts also highlight substantial growth potential for AAM. The global AAM market was valued at USD 11.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 73.5 billion by 2034.
Through regulated sandbox settings for trial flights and collaborations between private entities and government bodies involving leading eVTOL companies, world governments are backing advancements in Advanced Air Mobility. The bold NEOM urban development initiative in Saudi Arabia and Dubai’s preparedness through approved vertical takeoff and landing sites highlight the promise of this emerging technology.
Transformative potential
Connectivity in Nepal is severely hampered by its rugged and disaster-prone terrain. Dispersed rural settlements and unreliable transport infrastructures exacerbate the situation. Roads are often hard to build and maintain due to harsh topography and frequent disasters. Air travel remains crucial while affected by limited infrastructures, topography and weather constraints.
AAM offers a game-changing solution to the country’s transportation problems. It is an agile and environmentally friendly option that can bypass damaged or non-existent roads and operate in previously unreachable areas. It can improve healthcare, reducing fatalities via rapid deployment of medical supplies and personnel, including emergency medical evacuations.
The novel technology accelerates economic activities and growth, offering market access to local producers and farmers producing goods that often struggle to reach the market. It also supports tourism by establishing connectivity with previously isolated tourist attractions.
AAM can aid in disaster readiness and swift action through the rapid delivery of necessary supplies during emergencies. Aerial monitoring, real-time mapping, and fire-fighting abilities also improve efficient disaster management, reducing possible damages.
AAM vehicles produce zero emissions and operate more quietly, providing ecological benefits. In contrast to many nations that continue using harmful energy sources for power production, Nepal can utilize its rich hydropower resources to charge eVTOLs.
Apart from the transport revolution, AAM offers a platform for innovation and skills development. The youth population of Nepal makes it well-positioned to develop human capital in terms of AAM pilots, technicians and drone engineers.
Therefore, AAM presents groundbreaking possibilities for Nepal to surmount geographic challenges, enhance economic stability, and promote various Sustainable Development Goals.
Challenges to AAM adoption
Despite the promising prospects, the successful adoption of AAM in Nepal seems challenging. The absence of a legal and institutional framework, robust airspace management provisions and safety protocols, including pilot licensing for operating eVTOLs and autonomous aircraft, could hinder timely adoption.
Nepal might encounter difficulties when using eVTOLs at elevated altitudes to address its remote area accessibility requirements, since the majority of commercially available eVTOLs are built for use in city environments at lower elevations. In addition, factors like climate conditions and weather variations can influence both battery performance and lifting capability. Moreover, the restricted range and carrying capacity of present-day models could limit their effectiveness for extended or more demanding journeys across Nepal’s tough terrain.
The absence of essentials such as vertiports, reliable 5G connectivity, dedicated charging stations and robust electric grids, especially in rural and remote areas, could further delay the implementation and operation.
A lack of specialized knowledge and skilled personnel in AAM technologies poses a challenge for effective implementation. Developing local proficiency in cutting-edge aerospace technology, upkeep, and compliance matters will demand significant funding for learning and development programs.
In addition, as a relatively new technology, the initial expenses involved in acquiring airplanes, such as building facilities and educating staff, are anticipated to be substantial. This may influence financial choices and the ability of a nation with limited resources, like Nepal, to commit.
Limited public understanding of this new technology could lead to skepticism and hesitation in using air transportation services, whereas increasing knowledge will demand further financial resources.
What can Nepal do?
Given Nepal’s technical, financial and human resource constraints in the field of modern aviation, an incremental approach with extensive international collaboration is required to harness the full potential of AAM.
To ensure secure and effective implementation, it is essential to establish a specialized team within the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), working alongside major sectoral departments to achieve coordinated efforts across different areas. A National AAM Strategy can outline an explicit schedule and arrange required resources. Utilizing existing reference documents such as the Asia-Pacific AAM Framework may aid in shaping regulations and oversight.
Global cooperation and involvement from the private sector are essential for unlocking the capabilities of AAM. Engaging regionally and globally with those who have adopted or pioneered AAM can drive progress. Collaborating with the private sector through tax benefits and legal frameworks may support technological innovation aligned with Nepal’s needs.
The government should focus on the implementation of pilot projects in collaboration between CAAN, Nepal Army, academic institutions and the private sector with regulatory sandboxes to ease testing in early stages. For initial deployment, we could prioritise medical logistics, disaster response.
To ensure preparedness of infrastructure, it is essential to design and fund vertiport facilities along with specialized charging points in key areas. Moreover, prompt funding of education initiatives for the required labor force is crucial for smooth implementation.
The anticipated display of eVTOL represents Nepal’s fascination with advanced transportation solutions, yet underscores the difference between ambition and preparedness.
by admin | Aug 24, 2025 | cybersecurity, news, news media, politics, security
Released on, Aug. 19 – August 19, 2025 at 7:00 AM
Be mindful! A small device in the user’s hand has the power to shape their thoughts or ideas subtly, often going unnoticed. This could be considered an unsettling result of dependency on online services readily accessible via smartphones, tablets, and computers. The continuous flow of information appearing on these devices, lacking proper oversight and verification, fosters distorted stories.
Extremist groups and troublemakers have found it simpler to connect with their intended audiences via unrestricted online platforms. Since Pakistan is currently facing terrorism from multiple sources, the existence of prohibited entities within digital spaces demands stringent preventive actions.
Careful inquiries into terror incidents have uncovered surprising insights about how online services are being exploited by groups opposing the government. Individuals responsible for notable attacks can easily exchange information and plan actions against the country without detection, largely due to significant inconsistencies within national digital systems.
It’s encouraging to see the federal government showing commitment to address these shortcomings through specific actions. Recent reports about discussions among federal officials regarding this critical matter highlight the strong determination of the state to take control over the unrestricted online freedom enjoyed by outlawed extremist organizations. The recent suspension of over 850 social media profiles linked to prohibited groups marks the start of a carefully planned effort aimed at electronically isolating terrorists and those who support them.
A rising tide of terror in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan appears to be deliberately targeting the authority of the government, using a dangerous mix of brutal assaults and destructive propaganda spread via widely accessible social media networks. As per official statements, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has restricted numerous online profiles managed by extremist militant organizations such as the outlawed TTP, BLA, and BLF.
Interestingly, social media sites designed for public benefit and rapid information exchange are being exploited by extremists and rebels without facing any consequences. The unchecked abuse of online spaces is increasingly endangering people’s safety, societal stability, and local tranquility. Frequent terror strikes within Pakistan targeting police departments, military personnel, ordinary citizens, and international workers involved in development initiatives clearly show harmful involvement from both nearby and distant entities.
The core position of Pakistan regarding the participation of Indian state entities in transboundary terrorism support relies on concrete and reliable evidence, particularly the admissions made by Khambhushan Jhadav. The deliberate disruption of CPEC orchestrated by India-backed militant organizations could potentially trigger broader regional conflicts. It is surprising that the overt misuse of social media platforms (such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp) has not triggered any warning signals within the headquarters of the high-tech companies behind these services.
Pakistan has appropriately brought up this delicate matter with the platform administrators, as the extent of abuse and the influence of extremist groups among their supporters is highly concerning. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the National Center for Cyber Crime Investigations (NCCIA) have identified 533 accounts, which boast over 2 million followers, engaged in supporting terrorism, spreading subversive messages, inciting ethnic conflict, and promoting religious radicalism.
Social media platform owners can no longer ignore these obvious violations. Recent discussions between tech officials and Pakistani government representatives focused particularly on implementing strong corrective actions to break this pattern of neglect. The seriousness of this issue requires greater structured collaboration between governmental bodies and digital platform administrators.
The only alternative left is the prohibition of extremist accounts and mandatory disclosure of necessary information to government agencies by platform administrators. The government needs to make sure that theoretical discussions regarding free speech and human rights are no longer exploited by Indian intermediaries to hide the evident misuse of online platforms by terrorist organizations. Any hesitation or lack of response from company management cannot be accepted by regulatory bodies. The lives lost due to terrorism hold greater importance and sacredness compared to the questionable priorities of major technology corporations, which have previously demonstrated unacceptable failure in identifying illegal actions carried out by outlawed militant groups.
by admin | Aug 23, 2025 | community, culture, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel
Featuring ancient windmills and sloped-roof wooden homes situated along a winding river, the picturesque and widely popular spot known as Zaanse Schans is essential to visit for anyone exploring the Netherlands.
However, the village with its historic structures close to Amsterdam has been labeled “a national emblem of over-tourism” by local officials, who currently aim to implement a controversial entry fee.
The intense discussion regarding the proposed 17.50-euro ($20) ticket for next year occurs amid worldwide opposition to overcrowded tourism, with popular destinations such as Venice imposing fees for daily visits.
On a magnificent summer day during AFP’s visit, lengthy lines for the renowned windmills stretched outside the entrance, with groups moving across bridges, patiently awaiting photo opportunities showcasing the picturesque landscape.
Buses release hundreds of sightseeing visitors throughout the day, filling up a modestly sized space that remains open and accessible without charge — at least temporarily.
The local authority in neighboring Zaanstad claims the charge is essential for maintaining historic structures, which are facing “intense strain” due to large visitor volumes.
“Over the past few years, the Zaanse Schans has become a national emblem of over-tourism,” stated councilor Wessel Breunesse.
Approximately 2.6 million visitors came in the previous year, according to the council, with projections indicating an increase to three million in future years unless action is taken.
A ticket charge might lower the yearly number to approximately 1.8 million visitors and generate millions of euros for maintaining these historical structures.
“Not taking action is not feasible. With insufficient funds for proper upkeep, the heritage will disappear within a few years,” stated the council in a message delivered to AFP.
Tourism-dependent economy
Many visitors remain unaware until their arrival that although numerous structures originate from the 16th century, the location itself is a modern and constructed anomaly.
Following World War II, conventional wooden building techniques faced the risk of being completely lost.
Enthusiastic about safeguarding this piece of history, local Mayor Joris in ‘t Veld proposed a solution: he intended to move the homes and place them at a newly secured location.
In 1955, the first mill came into existence, followed by the first home a few years afterward. In time, the “Zaanse Schans” location became renowned enough to be formally inaugurated by Queen Juliana in 1972.
“Zaanse Schans was not originally intended to be the global attraction it has become, drawing millions of tourists from around the globe,” said councilor Breunesse.
However, for local resident and entrepreneur Ingrid Kraakman, the proposal to impose an entry fee would be catastrophic, not only as a community member but also for the dairy store where she is employed.
“A local living here doesn’t wish to reside behind a barrier… that’s unacceptable,” said the 62-year-old person, speaking to AFP from her 17th-century house located in the center of Zaanse Schans.
Kraakman and her husband Ko have resided in this region for 33 years and feel that implementing an entry charge would severely harm the local economy and employment opportunities.
“She mentioned there is significant fear,” she noted, adding that approximately 80 percent of the regional economy relies on tourism.
Her dairy store is full of visitors drawn in by complimentary tastings and mementos, yet she mentioned that the charge would significantly hinder their expenditure.
A household of four would already be spending approximately 80 euros including parking, which cuts into their funds for in-venue shopping, she pointed out.
“They do not purchase cheese. They do not buy clocks. Instead, they opt for a keepsake or perhaps the tiniest piece of cheese available,” she said to AFP.
Referendum demand
The Kraakmans have gathered over 2,000 signatures for a vote on this matter, yet their efforts have not been heeded at the municipal office.
Knowing about certain local opposition, the council has promised that the location will remain accessible to residents and that there won’t be any barrier surrounding the space.
Even though the plans are set for next year, an adjustment has been proposed to account for potential postponements. Currently, 2026 appears as an overly ambitious target — referred to by a local authority figure under confidentiality as a “moonshot.”
Many visitors believed the journey was worthwhile despite having to cover the costs.
Spanish tourist Robert Duque said to AFP: “It’s a beautiful location, although at times it gets very busy and you can’t fully appreciate the experience.”
A 35-year-old operations manager stated that he would be open to paying an entry fee to reduce tourism numbers.
“I believe it’s beneficial; thus, we can space out the arrival of visitors and make better use of the amenities,” stated Duque.
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.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
