Lagos Green Line Rail Faces Criticism Over Design Flaws

The Lagos Green Line Rail sparks debate as experts critique its limited station plan. President Tinubu’s team pushes this metro rail to transform Lagos’ transport network. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

On Friday, the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and Chinese Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) briefed Minister Wale Edun. Their progress report outlines key developments, yet it draws sharp critiques from industry voices.

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The proposed rail stretches from Lekki Free Trade Zone to Marina, connecting ten stations across Lagos State. Planners designate stops at Marina, Victoria Island, Lekki 1, Ajah, and Lekki Free Trade Zone, among others.

A direct link to the upcoming Lekki International Airport also features in the project’s blueprint. However, experts question whether the design meets the region’s growing transportation demands effectively.

MOFI and CHEC highlight six milestones in their presentation to Edun for approval and funding. Notably, the 2025 Federal Budget allocates $117.6 million, and a Tripartite Memorandum solidifies collaboration.

In 2024, CHEC completes site investigations, data analysis, and a detailed feasibility study report. Additionally, MOFI secures preliminary approval and pushes the project into the 2025 borrowing plan.

Lagos Green Line Rail Design Under Fire

Critics argue that the rail’s ten stations undermine its potential success significantly. An expert warns that this setup ensures low ridership, echoing the Blue Line’s struggles.

He emphasizes that Victoria Island, a bustling hub, deserves more than one station for efficiency. Because of this, the expert labels the current design shortsighted and inadequate for demand.

The project’s timeline shows progress, with research and agreements finalized in 2024 for implementation. Still, stakeholders urge a rethink to boost accessibility and ridership across the corridor.

For instance, the feasibility study gains approval from MOFI and Lagos State in 2025. But critics insist that poor planning risks wasting the $117.6 million investment entirely.

Supporters argue that the rail enhances connectivity between key economic zones in Lagos State. Nevertheless, detractors counter that flawed execution could derail its economic benefits completely.

The metro rail aims to link Marina to Lekki Free Trade Zone seamlessly. However, experts stress that insufficient stations hinder service quality and commuter convenience.

Lagos Green Line Rail Funding Moves Forward

In 2025, the Federal Government commits funds and resources to push construction forward. Yet, doubts linger over whether the design addresses Lagos’ dense population needs adequately.

Critics point to the Blue Line’s underperformance as a cautionary tale for this initiative. Because of this, they call for urgent revisions before construction begins in earnest.

The briefing to Edun underscores completed groundwork and secured partnerships with CHEC and Lagos. Still, the debate intensifies over whether ten stations suffice for 69.7 kilometers.

Proponents highlight the rail’s role in easing traffic and boosting economic activity significantly. Conversely, skeptics warn that poor station placement could doom the project from the start.

As the metro rail advances, experts demand more stations to maximize its impact. For now, the project’s fate hinges on addressing these critical design flaws swiftly.

This rail could transform Lagos’ transport network and link vital commercial hubs effectively. But without changes, it risks becoming another underused infrastructure project, critics caution loudly.

The government touts the rail as a cornerstone of urban development in 2025 plans. However, ensuring its success requires balancing ambition with practical, rider-focused design choices.

Source, photo: dailypost.ng

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