Yaba overpass, others will end train-vehicular crashes, says Lagos gov., Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, said his administration was concerned about the safety of Lagosians, hence, the construction of bridges across rail lines in the state.

The governor, who spoke during the unveiling of the Yaba Overpass at Tejuosho Junction, Yaba, on Thursday, said his government commenced the construction of four bridges across rail lines between Oyingbo and Ikeja to stop the “avoidable fatal accidents on railway crossings.”

The Yaba Overpass, which is to serve the Red Line rail station, is a T-bridge design, which is one of the five bridges the Lagos State Government was apportioned for construction out of 10 to separate vehicular and train traffic. The Federal Government is to handle the remaining five.

Speaking at the inauguration, Sanwo-Olu said, “About three years ago, we commenced the construction of four bridges across rail lines between Oyingbo and Ikeja. The bridges, located at Ikeja, Mushin, Yaba and Oyingbo, are designed to ensure the safety of our people.

“Over the years, we have recorded avoidable fatal accidents on railway crossings, most of the time due to human errors. We recall the last one which occurred in March this year at PWD/Ikeja GRA level crossing involving a Lagos State government staff bus. Sadly, lives were lost and people suffered varying degrees of injury in that accident.

“Today’s ceremony is, therefore, significant because, with this overpass and others at Ikeja, Mushin and Oyingbo, which will be formally opened before the end of the year, there will be no more occurrence of train-vehicular accidents at these locations.”

The governor, while speaking on the projected completion of the Red Line rail before the end of the year, said the construction of the Green, Purple and Orange Lines rail system would commence soon.

“It’s my pleasure to announce that three additional rail lines will be added soon, because we’ve done extensive feasibility and viability studies. The Green Line is a 68km rail route from Marina all the way to the Lekki Free Trade Zone. The Purple Line is a 60km length all the way from the Redemption camp in Ogun State to Ojo Majority in Lagos West region. And, of course, we also want to do the Orange Line, from Agbowa in Ikorodu to Ikeja,” he said.

He added that the implementation of the rail lines across the state “will improve the travel experience of our people, reduce congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve their lifestyles.”

Sanwo-Olu called on residents of the state to take ownership of the transport projects across the state and protect them.

He also warned that the bridges are not to be turned into places where traders display their wares.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, our transport projects have been implemented at a huge cost. We should not feel unconcerned when societal enemies are bent on destroying our commonwealth. We should be concerned because great societies are built and sustained when their people take ownership of their infrastructure.

“I, therefore, ask you all to protect this bridge from vandals and other societal enemies.

“For the avoidance of doubt, let me reiterate that this bridge is not a marketplace; the steps, ramps, and sidewalks are not for displaying wares.

(Punch)

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