The new Bayelsa
State transport scheme, tagged, “Restoration Cab” has been launched by Governor
Seriake Dickson.
The launch of the
scheme came on the heels of the ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known
as Okada in the state capital, Yenagoa.
Speaking at the
launch of the taxi cabs and tri-wheel vehicles, Governor Dickson said the
vehicles were procured for the initial take off of the scheme.
The Governor noted
that just as his administration was working hard to develop the basic
infrastructure of the state, it was imperative to provide world class transport
system alongside the proposed deep sea ports and airports.
The state Chief
Executive who described the new transport system as a pilot scheme, disclosed
that government spent over 600 million naira including insurance and warned
beneficiaries not to convert the vehicles for private use.
According to
Governor Dickson, the cabs are intended to serve as a source of empowerment for
the people as well as expand the economy of the state.
He announced that
buses would soon be procured to add to the fleet of the scheme, and remarked
that in the course of expanding the major roads, provision for bus stops would
be made.
He urged
beneficiaries of the scheme to be worthy ambassadors of the state as they are
likely to be the first point of contact for visitors to the state as well as
assist in the maintenance of security by alerting the security agents on any
suspicious movements.
The Governor also
appealed to commuters to exercise some patience considering the fact that they
may experience some inconvenience as the new transport system comes on board,
noting that the development was in their own interest.
In her address, the
commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Marie Ebikake, explained that government has
procured 100 tri-wheel vehicles and 200 air-conditioned vehicles for the first
phase of the scheme.
Mrs. Ebikake noted
that the taxi cabs have been allocated to well trained drivers in line with the
guidelines of the ministry whose identities were guaranteed by credible
politicians, civil servants and traditional rulers.
She said government
was negotiating with reputable companies for the purchase of buses to further ease
road transportation in the state.
Daniel
Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press
Secretary to the Governor
31/08/2012
31/08/2012
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