The multi-billion Naira
Calabar Light rail project, the first in Nigeria, would soon be inaugurated by
President Muhammadu Buhari.
The
12-car monorail system, when fully operational, would use an Intamin P8
electric powered passenger shuttle train to convey passengers from Tinapa
Resort, across Lake Tinapa to Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC).
The
light rail project has three stations, Tinapa, Tinapa Lakeside Hotel and the
Calabar International Conference Centre.
The
monorail would also allow access to Studio Tinapa, Tinapa Shopping Centre and
Tinapa waterpark as well as provide a quick alternative access to Summit Hills.
Built
by Ponet TFZE, the train with a cruising speed of about 40 kilometres per hour,
has 12 cars, including 10 passenger and two equipment cars.
Each
car is primed for seven to eight passengers all seated, while the train’s
length, width and height are approximately 38, 1.95 and 2.2 metres,
respectively.
When
fully operational, the electric-powered air-conditioned train with 1.62 metres
height approximately in its passenger compartment, would provide a 24-hour
service.
Gov.
Ben Ayade had recently told journalists in Calabar that Buhari would inaugurate
the train to mark his first year in office.
Ayade
announced this during a second test ride of the train to ensure that the
project was ready for inauguration.
The
governor said the launching of the monorail would be a step toward boosting the
economy and expand employment opportunities in the state..
He
said the state government was determined to extend the facility to Margaret
Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, as panacea to envisaged congestion of the
city centre through rapid investments inflow.
The
parking space at the train’s take-off point at Tinapa can conveniently
accommodate 150 cars.
Mr
Mba Mba, the station’s Electrical Engineer, said the light rail project was
completed in December last year.
“Right
now, the Calabar Monorail is ready for use pending inauguration by appropriate
authorities.
“We
have test-run the system and confirmed its readiness. Gov. Ben Ayade was here
with his team to see for himself what is on ground.
“Tourists
troop here on daily basis to take a ride. But they were disappointed as they
were turned back.
“We
always give the excuse that although services are ready, they can only have
their way when it is officially inaugurated.
“School
children on excursions, families and other curious residents, who have not seen
this kind of train before, have been coming to feed their eyes and seeking to
take a ride.’’
Mr
Christian Ita, Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Ayade, also confirmed that the
project was completed.
“It is awaiting inauguration; we are waiting for a date from the presidency for its inauguration,’’ he said.
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