BY OTITI AKPOVOKE
The recent hike in fuel prices, with PMS selling for over a thousand naira per liter, has brought immense suffering to Deltans.
The ban on motorcycle operations in certain parts of the state and total ban in the state capital has further exacerbated the transportation crisis, leaving commuters stranded.
In times like these, one would expect the Ministry of Transportation to spring into action, providing solutions to alleviate the suffering of the people. However, the ministry’s inaction has raised questions about its relevance.
The absence of a state-owned transportation company in Delta State is a glaring omission, particularly in times of crisis. Such a company would provide affordable and reliable transportation options for commuters.
Instead, the ministry seems to be missing in action, leaving Deltans to bear the brunt of the transportation crisis. The hike in transportation costs has affected not only commuters but also businesses and the economy at large.
The ministry’s redundancy is further highlighted by its failure to engage with stakeholders, including transport operators and commuters, to find solutions to the crisis.
In other states, ministries of transportation are proactive in addressing transportation challenges.
They engage with stakeholders, provide alternative transportation options, and work towards establishing state-owned transportation companies.
In contrast, the Delta State Ministry of Transportation seems to be disconnected from the realities on the ground. Its inaction has led to widespread suffering, and it is time for the ministry to take responsibility and act.
The people of Delta State deserve better. The ministry must wake up to its responsibilities and work towards establishing a state-owned transportation company to provide affordable and reliable transportation options. Anything less is unacceptable.
