By Demi Adeniyi
THE Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) will commence a week-long test run of the Omibus ferry on July 29, the General Manager, Mr Damilola Emmanuel has said.
The LASWA GM in a statement issued on Friday, said the pilot phase of what would eventually be changing the narrative of waterway commuting in the state will take-off on Monday.
He said: “We are thrilled to announce the Omibus pilot programme launching from July 29.
“This initiative, powered by the Ministry of Transportation and LASWA aims to revolutionise waterway commuting in Lagos.
“Join us for a week of testing our Omibus ferries, during which we hope to collect essential data, and increase public awareness about the future of waterway transportation in Lagos,” he said.
Emmanuel announced the pilot programme scheduled as follows: “For morning trips, from Ikorodu – Ebute Ero – CMS, departure from Ikorodu would be by 7.00 a.m.
“Ikorodu – Victoria Island (Addax) – Falomo: 7.00 a.m., departure from Ikorodu.
“Badore – Victoria Island (Addax) – Falomo: 7.00 a.m., departure from Badore.
“For evening trips: CMS – Ikorodu: 4.30 p.m., departure from CMS, Falomo – Ikorodu: 5.30 p.m., departure from Falomo; Falomo – Badore: 5.30 p.m., departure from Falomo,” he said.
He stated that commuters would experience the Omibus ferries, operated by Caverton Marine, an indigenous investor, first-hand during the pilot phase.
The LASWA chief added that passengers will be required to pay for fare with Cowry Card, urging them to simply tap in with their Cowry card to board.
“We are using the test run phase to gather feedback to refine our service for the full launch. The ferry is designed to international safety standards and offers a comfortable and secure journey.
“Our ferries are internationally recognised for safety and quality, providing a top-notch travel experience.
“Join us on this journey towards a better, congestion-free Lagos,” he said.
Recall that the Lagos State Government on May 28, unveiled 15 Omibus ferries, manufactured and operated by Caverton Marine, at Badore, a riverine community in the Ajah area of the state.
The water buses which will come with modern facilities such as charging ports for charging of phones and other devices are produced locally at Badore by Caverton Marine, a firm with solid pedigree in n the aviation sector in the country.
The Omibus will help the Lagos State Government scale up on water transportation and give commuters living in the riverine areas a sense of belonging with the provision of world class water buses for more comfortable ridership experience on the waterway.