- Abuja Kaduna train service may begin soon
By News Editor
It would henceforth be mandatory for train passengers to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) before procuring train tickets on any of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) train service network, the NRC said yesterday.
The NRC management stated this, even as it disclosed that the track access between Abuja and Kaduna, destroyed by terrorists’ explosion of the track during the attack on the Kaduna bound AK9 speed train, on the night of March 28, 2022 have been completely restored.
The statement, signed by the Director of Operations Engr Niyi Alli, on behalf of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidet Okhiria, stated that the NIN verification prior to purchasing train tickets is aimed at improving passenger profiling and safety on-board.
He said the major components of the track (concrete sleepers and rails) have been completely laid as the south end of the tracks (which was destroyed by the explosion) has been successfully joined with the north end.
The locomotive, (engine) Loco 2502, involved in the accident which was trapped at the Rigasa end due to lack of route access has now crossed to the Idu end and taken to the workshop for proper examination and routine maintenance.
He went further to say that the technical team would continue with other track stabilisation works including Ballasting, Temping, Fastening of accessories (clips, bolts and nuts) and welding.
He said: “As we have mentioned in our earlier releases, the Abuja – Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) will resume soon with additional security features.
“The Corporation is committed to the safety of all our passengers and staff on board the ill-fated Ak9 train service. We will continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure all persons being held are rescued unhurt and reunited with their families, soonest.”
He again commiserated with the souls of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate attack. “We also pray that Almighty God continue to grant the families of those who lost loved ones, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. We equally pray for the full recovery of those injured in the ill-fated AK9 train service of 28th March, 2022.”
The statement, in compliance with President’s directive, urged all those still looking for their missing loved ones to contact the situation room on the following numbers: Mrs. Lola 08023310145 and Mr. Mahmood 07038356015.
It expressed gratitude to the security agencies for the continued support, especially for the security cover availed our officials and staff at the incident site throughout the period of the repairs, even as it assured that it will continue to update the general public of latest developments.
