As rising petrol prices continue to increase the cost of transportation across the country, many residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are turning to the Abuja Light Rail as a more affordable, faster and reliable means of commuting.
The rail service, commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 27, 2024, has become increasingly popular among workers, business owners and travellers seeking relief from the high cost of road transport.
The Abuja Light Rail, operated by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), runs along the Yellow Line, connecting the Abuja Metro Station in the city centre to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport through Kukwaba 1, Kukwaba 2, Wupa, Idu and Bassanjiwa.
The journey takes about 20 minutes, significantly reducing travel time compared to road transport, especially during peak traffic periods.
Following the inauguration of the rail service, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike approved free rides for commuters for the first two months to encourage public patronage.
Commuters who spoke with Daily Trust said the service has become a preferred transport option as fuel prices continue to rise.
They estimated that more than 600 passengers use the train during peak periods, noting that the service currently operates four trips daily at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
A commuter, Zachariah Asimiyu, said the rail service had helped him reduce transportation expenses while offering a more convenient alternative to road travel.
He said the train was not only cheaper but also enabled passengers to avoid the traffic congestion that often characterises movement within the city.
Another passenger, Saheed Salau, said he had significantly reduced the use of his private vehicle because commuting by rail was more economical, particularly following the recent increase in petrol prices.
He added that besides being cost-effective, the train offered a safer and more comfortable travel experience.
Similarly, Farouq Ibrahim described the rail system as reliable and punctual, urging more residents to take advantage of the service.
A railway engineer, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media, said the Abuja Light Rail had maintained an impressive safety record since commercial operations began.
According to him, there has been no derailment since the service commenced, attributing the achievement to routine maintenance and continuous technical support from the Chinese operators managing the system.
First-time passengers also described their experience as smooth and comfortable, saying they would continue using the train whenever the need arose.
Despite the growing popularity of the service, many commuters called on the FCTA to increase the number of daily trips, particularly during rush hours, to accommodate rising passenger demand.
Responding to the concerns, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Lere Olayinka, said the existing timetable was currently adequate but assured residents that the administration would continue to monitor passenger demand and make improvements where necessary.
With transportation costs continuing to rise alongside fuel prices, residents believe that expanding the Abuja Light Rail service would not only provide relief to commuters but also reduce traffic congestion, lower transport costs and promote a more sustainable urban transport system in the nation’s capital.
News Credit to our media partner DailyTrust Home .
