The Delta State Government has unveiled plans to introduce a fleet of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses within the next four to five months as part of a major initiative to provide residents with affordable, safe and reliable transportation across the state.
The Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Onoriode Agofure, disclosed this during an interaction with journalists in Asaba on Thursday, saying Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had approved the procurement of the buses to kick-start the state’s mass transit programme.
He explained that the buses are being specially manufactured to meet the state’s specifications and cannot be purchased directly off the shelf.
According to Agofure, the government had spent the last two years studying and mapping out routes to ensure the efficient deployment of the buses.
He said the services would cover both inter-city and intra-city routes, including major urban centres such as Asaba and Warri and their surrounding communities.
The commissioner noted that the initial 50 buses would serve as a pilot phase and that the fleet would be expanded once the system proves effective.
He added that the state government was putting in place legal and operational frameworks to ensure the mass transit scheme outlives the current administration.
Agofure also revealed that modern bus terminals are being developed to support the initiative, with the state constructing a terminal in Asaba, while the Federal Government has approved a regional transport terminal in Warri after Delta donated land for the project.
On the issue of infrastructure, the commissioner said existing CNG refuelling stations in Asaba and Warri would support the initial rollout, while discussions were ongoing with private investors to establish additional facilities in Kwale, Sapele and Abraka.
He expressed confidence that the scheme would transform public transportation in the state and reduce transport costs by creating healthy competition among transport operators.
Agofure further stated that the project would generate employment opportunities for drivers, mechanics, ticketing officers, cleaners and traders operating around the terminals, while stimulating economic activities across the state.
He noted that the programme would initially focus on road transportation in upland communities before being extended to riverine areas as part of the state’s long-term transport development agenda.
Speaking separately, the Director of Vehicle Inspection Services, Engr. Vincent Ehiwario, commended Governor Oborevwori and the Commissioner for Transport for introducing reforms in the transport sector, including automated vehicle inspections, road safety awareness campaigns and plans to review transport laws to strengthen electronic enforcement and improve traffic management across Delta State.
