Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu conducted a test run of the Red Line train on Saturday, meticulously inspecting the tracks and rail corridors. This prelude comes ahead of the formal commissioning scheduled for next Thursday, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will inaugurate the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) infrastructure along with its stations and ancillary facilities.
The 37-kilometre line, meticulously built by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), spans seven stations from Agbado (a boundary town in Ogun State) to Oyingbo in Lagos Central. The Red Line promises to revolutionise urban transportation in the bustling city.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and members of the State cabinet, embarked on a train ride from the Ikeja Mega Station. Their mission: to ensure the infrastructure is primed for the grand opening.
The Red Line train, emerging from the garage track for the first time since its delivery, departed the Ikeja Mega Station promptly at 2:23 PM. Its steady journey led passengers to Agege Station just six minutes later. Continuing onward, the train reached Iju Station at 2:38 PM, a mere 15 minutes after leaving Ikeja.
While aboard, Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy meticulously inspected the train’s coaches. These Talgo wagons, crafted in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, underwent scrutiny for comfort and safety. The assessment included the cooling system, handrails, cushioned seats, and other in-built features.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the readiness of the train line for commissioning. However, he emphasised the need for continuous vigilance to keep the train path clear of unauthorised activities.
