FG plans to reopen Abuja-Kaduna railway, increase Tickets prices

The Federal Government has hinted at an increase in train fares, as it plans to reopen the Abuja-Kaduna railway service.

Minister for Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi made this known while inspecting coaches, stations and other facilities at the Itakpe-Warri railway.

According to the Minister, the planned increase in fares was as a result of the persisting Covid-19 pandemic.

He said, “the cost of transportation to Kaduna from Abuja may double. This is because each coach takes 88 passengers and we are reducing it to 40 passengers and the implication is that the price will increase. But we need to get approval from the President.”

Speaking on safety measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 when the railways are open, the Minister said, “We are going to comply with the Covid-19 committee, and the Covid-19 committee says a minimum of 3 meters. That’s why we are reducing the passengers from 88 to 40.”

“Everyone must come with a hand sanitizer, with minimum 90% alcohol. The next thing is a face mask. No entry without a mask. We will increase the presence of the police for enforcement,” he added.

Amaechi further condemned reports of certain persons bypassing laid down the precautionary measure, and noted that when the railways are open, strict measures will be put in place.

“There is no big man about death. If you want to die, please don’t kill others. Whether you are a big man or a poor man, everybody must obey the rules. And like I said, we are going to increase the presence of police officers to enforce strict adherence,” he noted.