Anambra State government has expressed its readiness to transform its transport system to meet modern global standards.

James Eze, the chief press secretary to the governor, said this while briefing newsmen during a post State Executive Council briefing, at Government House, Awka.

Eze noted that present administration had finalised arrangements to strengthen the socio-economic growth of the state, geared toward improving the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, of the state.

He announced that Government had set up a committee to develop comprehensive Master Plan for Anambra State Transportation Sector.

Eze pointed out that the committee was set up during the meeting held on June 19.

He observed that the committee headed by Uchenna Okafor, commissioner for Road, Rail and Water Transportation, has at least six weeks to develop the master plan.

According to Eze, the committee has among its terms of reference, to develop a plan for construction of modern bus terminals and Bus Stops in Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi.

The committee was also charged with initiative to develop a blueprint for the construction of a light rail tracks across the state.

“The master plan also entails the revamping of the Anambra State Mass Transit buses, known as `Willie Is Working Buses’ and the provision of jetties in riverine areas of the state to improve water transportation,’’ Eze added.

He added: “other responsibilities of the committee include working out modalities for installation of cameras to track traffic offenders, in order to assure security of passengers.’’

The rest of the responsibilities include marking of roads, and advising Government on how best to introduce indigenous transport system close to ‘Uber transport services.’

Uber transport services are a network of vehicles in a loop controlled via the internet that provide transport services to customers at minimal fees.

The chief press secretary said: “Anambra as a gateway to the South East, is a centre of commerce and logistics.’’

He emphasised the expectation of any proactive government that looked beyond its present gains and challenges to chart a more progressive and sustainable transportation system for it.

According to him, this is why the present administration is taking some measures to overhaul subsisting transportation system in the state to make it more effective and responsive.

He re-echoed the position of government on the proposed ban on commercial motorcycle operation in Onitsha and Awka by July 1, urging all involved to start taking steps to ensure compliance to the directive.

– June 21, 2018 @ 16:11 GMT |