By Halimah Olamide
The Lagos State Government has re-established the Right of Way of the Light Rail infrastructure.
This was disclosed by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPP&UD), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and the Commissioner in the Ministry, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide during a special enforcement operation.
He stated that encroachment of the Red Line Corridor would not be tolerated as such would not only impede operations but also jeopardize lives and the well-being of those involved.
According to him, the state government was fully committed to delivering the project as scheduled to ease transportation in the State while being mindful of the safety of lives and property. He directed the enforcement team of LASBCA to ensure the complete removal of all illegal structures along the corridor of the facility.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde explained that the Red Line Rail was designed as a Fast Train System with expected intervals of 10 minutes, the performance of which could be jeopardized by any untoward development within the route.
The General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki while addressing the residents and traders in the affected areas, urged them to cooperate with the government to prevent any potential harm by making sure that the areas are fully vacated.
“The Lagos State Government remains committed to providing efficient and safe transportation solutions for its residents. The enforcement operation along the Red Line Corridor is a clear demonstration of this commitment”, he stated.
Recall that the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu had previously visited some of the Train Stations and warned traders against using the Red Line Corridors for trading activities.
The enforcement operation which also had in attendance key Management Staff of LASBCA commenced at Alagbado Train Station all through Iju Ishaga, Agege, Mushin, and Yaba and ended at Ebute Metta Train Station.