In a move geared towards reducing traffic jam, Lagos State Government has proposed the implementation of route restrictions for trailer and truck drivers operating within the State, while their movement periods are restricted to night time.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, announced that the current administration has mapped out dedicated routes to be plied between 9:00 pm and 6:00 am daily.
He elaborated that the move was necessary as the Apapa in Lagos has been rendered less profitable for investors due to the gridlock and activities of truck drivers along the axis, appealing to the stakeholders to cooperate with the State Government to remedy the situation.
Dr. Oladeinde urged them to put aside their sentiments and think of other motoring public as the policy is not meant to cause rancour, but geared towards opening up the State for greater economic realities.
The Commissioner implored the stakeholders to see issues raised as work in progress, while noting that discussions with the unions are ongoing until the grey areas are cleared.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Oluwatoyin Fayinka, declared that non-compliance from truck drivers will be met with the full weight of the Law and appropriate sanctions exerted on offenders.
While requesting the Nigerian Ports Authority to furnish the Ministry with information on the call-up schedule, Fayinka maintained that it will also help control the influx of vehicles into Lagos, especially Apapa ports, and prevent the parking of tankers and trucks along road corridors.
The representative of the Nigerian Ports Authority, (NPA) Mr. Ayodele Durowaye, advised that a forum should be created to discuss the technicalities and draw solutions that will ensure safety and ease stakeholders’ operations.
The Lagos Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria FRCN, Mr. Olumide Ogungbemide stated that the loss of life could not be equated to sentiments being raised by truckers, disclosing that only 8% of the operators have minimum safety requirements.
The GM, Lagos State Traffic Management Agency LASTMA, Engr. Olajide Oduyoye and the Director, @LagosVis, Engr. George Akin-Fashola appealed to the stakeholders to support the directive in consideration for the citizenry and prevent avoidable enforcement from the Government.
He assured that the agencies are ready to work with the unions to get their members acquainted with safety requirements and help beef up their services in line with the provision of the Law on the safety of lives and property.
Speaking on the restricted routes for trucks and vehicle specifications, Director Transport Operations, Engr. Abdulhafis Toriola, clarified that any vehicle above 6ft with three sets of number plates is considered a Trailer and an Articulated Vehicle.
He explained that Ikorodu road, Maryland, Costain and Funsho Williams avenue will be restricted to them.