Delays, overcrowding disrupt free train rides across Nigeria
In an effort to ease the financial burden of transportation during the festive season, the federal government launched free train rides across the country. However, the initiative, which began on Sunday, has been fraught with challenges, including delays, overcrowding, and reports of disorganisation.
The free train rides, directed by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), cover major passenger routes such as Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan, Warri-Itakpe, and Lagos-Ogun. Acting NRC Managing Director, Ben Iloanusi, stated that the initiative aims to serve an estimated 340,000 passengers between now and early January 2025.
Despite the goodwill, passengers at various stations have faced significant hurdles. In Rigasa Train Station, Kaduna, thousands struggled to board amidst chaotic scenes. Many passengers who had booked tickets online found themselves stranded in crowded and disorganised queues.
A frustrated passenger remarked, “We woke up early to get tickets, but there’s no guarantee of boarding. The process is chaotic, and people are cutting in line without reservations.”
The confusion extended to the train interiors, with arguments over seat allocations. A mother with an infant described her ordeal, saying, “It was so stuffy inside that I had to climb through a window to get fresh air for my baby.”
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The situation was no better in Lagos, where passengers at Babatunde Raji Fashola Train Station in Agege complained about difficulties in booking tickets online. Meanwhile, in Delta State, the Ujevwu-Warri route faced technical breakdowns, leaving passengers stranded for hours.
Despite these challenges, some passengers praised the initiative. Fatima Adam, who travelled from Abuja to Kaduna, expressed gratitude to the president, saying, “We enjoyed the ride without spending a kobo. It’s a commendable effort to support Nigerians during the festive season.”
The NRC has promised to address the issues, with staff profiling passengers at stations to ensure fair access. However, calls for better organisation and improved infrastructure continue to dominate discussions.
While the free train service has been applauded for its intent, the implementation challenges have highlighted the need for better planning to ensure that Nigerians can fully enjoy the benefits of such initiatives.
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