Port Harcourt-Aba Rail Line Officially Transferred to Nigerian Railway Corporation

The 62-kilometre Port Harcourt-Aba Rail Line is now operational, enhancing economic growth and connectivity in the region. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Project Handover Marks Operational Milestone

The 62-kilometre railway connecting Port Harcourt and Aba is now operational, enhancing connectivity and economic growth. The Federal Ministry of Transportation officially transferred the rail line’s operation to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) during a ceremony held in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

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The event included representatives from CCECC Nigeria Limited, Khairi/Jamub SDN Limited, NRC staff, and other stakeholders. Project Supervisor Ayo Dada emphasized that the railway would boost local and national economies by improving transportation and fostering development.

Dada highlighted the importance of following proper procedures before transferring such significant infrastructure. “Due diligence is crucial in construction projects to ensure safety and quality,” he said. He added that this handover represents one segment of the larger Port Harcourt-Maiduguri Railway Project, which will be completed incrementally.

Key Features of the Port Harcourt-Aba Rail Line

The handover included various completed components: 62.8 kilometres of rehabilitated subgrade, 27 turnouts at five stations, and multiple bridges and culverts. The project also features 33 kilometres of drainage and reconstructed level crossings to enhance safety.

Technical specifications and maintenance manuals for the rail line were submitted to Khairi/Jamub Global Services and the Ministry. These documents ensure proper operational guidelines for the NRC, which now oversees the railway’s operations.

NRC Managing Director Ben Iloanusi, represented by Deputy Manager Adesegun Ogunade, praised the government for delivering the project. He stated that the rail line is already easing transportation challenges, offering faster and more affordable travel between the two cities.

Passengers have reported satisfaction with the service, citing its convenience and cost-effectiveness. “The railway significantly reduces travel time and expenses,” Ogunade noted, adding that the project’s commercial aspect has been running smoothly.

Safety measures are also in place to protect passengers and workers. Dada assured that the remaining sections of the railway will proceed as scheduled, extending the benefits to other parts of the country.

Khairi/Jamub project manager Olufemi Aransiola echoed these sentiments, highlighting the railway’s role in fostering regional economic growth. He noted that businesses and communities along the route are already experiencing positive impacts.

The Port Harcourt-Aba Rail Line exemplifies how infrastructure projects can transform regions by connecting cities and promoting economic activities. The federal government’s commitment to completing the entire rail line underscores its focus on national development through efficient transportation networks.

Photo, source: www.arise.tv

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