By Michael Olatunji
Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has announced the commencement of the pilot phase of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses for passenger operations.
The initiative was to reduce toxic gas emission into the atmosphere, by public transport buses.
Under the pilot phase, 10 high capacity vehicles (HCV) would be deployed to shuttle the Marina/CMS to Lekki and Ajah-Epe bus routes.
The operation which was franchised to a bus operating company named Femadec will progressively increase the number of buses to 100, after data had proven the sustainability of the use of CNG.
LAMATA has been involved in studies aimed at alternative fuel energy sources in transport operations. The deployment of buses powered by CNG will provide useful data for future decisions on wholesome wide use of such buses for passenger transit operations in Lagos.
CNG burns cleaner and reduces carbon monoxide by more than 80 per cent when compared to traditional petrol and diesel.
CNG powered vehicles also run quieter than gasoline and diesel vehicles, which results in less noise pollution.
The bus operating company will have its operational base at the Ajah Terminal and make use of the bus shelters along the Lekki-Epe corridor for its operation.
The fare card, Cowry, will be used to pay for services on the buses.