Operations of the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Abule-Egba was yesterday halted for several hours for lack of diesel. The situation left many commuters stranded as they eagerly waited for resumption of operations without success.
Many were forced to use alternative measures to meet their appointments. One of them, Michael Oni, told The Guardian his frustration after waiting for hours to see if operation will be restored. Oni, who works in the Island, has made the ride a daily routine.
Armed with his Lagos State travel token known as Cowry card, Oni came out very early with high hopes only to be told the buses have no diesel to move. He called on Lagos state government to investigate the issue and ensure there was no recurrence.
Another commuter, Mrs. Comfort Ofodile, said such an incident could affect patronage. She called for proper customer relationships between the operators and commuters.
But the Director, Public Transport and Commuter Services in the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Ajewole Ashaolu told The Guardian on phone that the situation was under control. He also said the operation had been restored.
Since the launch of the Abule -Egba Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor by the Lagos State Government last August, the initiative has brought a breath of fresh air to intra-state movement on that axis.
Not only are the BRT buses a delight to ride, with the roomy interior and comfortable seats, they are also clean and modern.
Compared to the yellow buses, the BRT buses are way better, especially with the air-conditioning system that is permanently switched on.
Other services that attract commuters to the BRT buses include the opportunity for commuters to work on their laptops or just surf the Internet and listen to music while aboard. There are even slots for charging mobile phones.
