Follow Us on Google
By Fidelis Ugbomeh
Barely 3 months after suspension of passenger train operations along Warri-Itakpe standard gauge railway corridor, commuters streamed into designated railway terminals (stations) and portal to make payments and bookings following recent announcement of resumption of service.
Hitherto, management of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) announced temporary suspension of service for two days in the month of July for routine maintenance but it lasted until last week, Wednesday when service resumed.
Chief Public Relations Officer of the corporation, Mr. Calistus Onyinmadu issued a statement to this effect, saying suspension of passenger train service became necessary to carry out critical repairs, maintenance, and system checks on the track and rolling stock to ensure the comfort, reliability and safety of passengers.
According to one of the passengers who booked online, the NRC portal was opened early enough about 48 hours ahead of resumption date adding that passengers were able to secure their tickets early through the portal or at designated stations.
Mr.Abiodun Olopade, a retired civil servant in his remarks said that “I am based in Warri and each time I had to visit Abuja for pension verification exercise I travelled by rail to Itakpe before completing the journey by road to Abuja.
“I boarded the train from Warri-Itakpe when I heard about the resumption of passenger train service and noted that seven coaches, comprising six standard class and one business class were attached to the front and rear locomotive engines”.
Unyinmadu explained further that train timetable, incorporating temporary speed restrictions (TSR) for safety and operational monitoring, was given to passengers that boarded the train.
He assured the travelling public of the corporation’s renewed commitment to safe, reliable, and efficient rail services.
The spokesman also apologized to stakeholders for inconveniences experienced during the period of suspension while appreciating their patience and understanding.
