In a significant development for the city’s transportation infrastructure, the Lagos State Government has officially announced that the Blue Line Rail Transport is set to begin its operations on the 4th of September.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Gboyega Akosile, shared this eagerly awaited news through a Facebook post.
“Breaking news: dear Lagosians, the Blue Line Rail transport will commence full commercial operations from Monday September 4th, 2023. We will move passengers on return journey from Mile 2 to Marina.”
As the commencement date draws near, residents are eagerly looking forward to experiencing the benefits of this new rail transport system.
This information was further verified by Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA). She shared this confirmation during an event held at the Marina Train Station on Wednesday.
Akinajo also mentioned in an official statement that the inaugural train journey, scheduled for 9:00 am, will feature the presence of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and fellow passengers. The journey will span from Marina to the Mile 2 Train Station.
Mrs. Akinajo explained that during the initial four weeks, the train service will operate twelve trips using the locomotive system.
Following this month-long period, LAMATA will introduce electric-powered train operations, comprising 76 trips daily. The estimated daily passenger count is anticipated to range between 150,000 to 175,000. The service will run from 5:30 am to 11 pm each day, with a brief 90-second stop at every station.
She mentioned that the transportation relief measures introduced by Governor Sanwo-Olu will also extend to train services.
Mrs. Akinajo however urged the residents of Lagos not to cross the rail tracks due to their energized state. She emphasized that engaging in unlawful activities within the vicinity of the five train stations will result in legal action.