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| Gov. Ayade & Pres. Buhari |
The multi -billion Naira Calabar Light rail project , the first in Nigeria , would soon be commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari. The 12- car monorail system , when fully operational, would use an Intamin P 8 electric powered passenger shuttle train to convey passengers from Tinapa Resort, across Lake Tinapa to Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC ).
The light rail project has three stations , Tinapa , Tinapa Lakeside Hotel and the Calabar International Conference Centre. The monorail would also allow access to Studio Tinapa , Tinapa Shopping Centre and Tinapa waterpark as well as provide a quick alternative access to Summit Hills. Built by Ponet TFZE , the train with a cruising speed of about 40 kilometres per hour, has 12 cars , including 10 passenger and two equipment cars .
Each car is primed for seven to eight passengers all seated , while the train ’ s length , width and height are approximately 38 , 1. 95 and 2. 2 metres , respectively. When fully operational , the electric -powered air-
conditioned train with 1. 62 metres height approximately in its passenger compartment , would provide a 24 -hour service.
Gov . Ben Ayade had recently told journalists in Calabar that Buhari would inaugurate the train to mark his first year in office. Ayade announced this during a second test ride of the train to ensure that the project was ready for inauguration .
The governor said the launching of the monorail would be a step toward boosting the economy and expand employment opportunities in the state . He said the state government was determined to extend the facility to Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar , as panacea to envisaged congestion of the city centre through rapid investments inflow. The parking space at the train ’ s take- off point at Tinapa can conveniently accommodate 150 cars .
Mr Mba Mba , the station’ s Electrical Engineer, said the light rail project was completed in December last year . “ Right now , the Calabar Monorail is ready for use pending inauguration by appropriate authorities.
“ We have test- run the system and confirmed its readiness. Gov . Ben Ayade was here with his team to see for himself what is on ground.
“ Tourists troop here on daily basis to take a ride. But they were disappointed as they were turned back . “ We always give the excuse that although services are ready, they can only have their way when it is officially inaugurated .
“ School children on excursions , families and other curious residents, who have not seen this kind of train before , have been coming to feed their eyes and seeking to take a ride . ’’ Mr Christian Ita , Chief Press Secretary to Gov . Ayade , also confirmed that the project was completed.
“ It is awaiting inauguration ; we are waiting for a date from the presidency for its inauguration , ’’ he said .
Read more at Information Nigeria
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