From Moshood Karim
Lagos State in South-west, Nigeria, is renowned as one of the busiest and most densely populated cities worldwide. However, the city grapples with severe traffic congestion, significantly impacting the lives of its residents and complicating daily commutes. As the city continues to expand, innovative solutions are essential to overcome transportation challenges.
The congestion is primarily caused by the high population density, inadequate road infrastructure, and a surge in vehicle ownership, leading to frustration and delays for commuters and businesses.
Despite being the smallest State in terms of land mass, Lagos is the most populous State in Nigeria, with approximately 20 million residents. Research estimates that Lagos has a traffic index of 348.69, topping the list among eight surveyed African countries, resulting in an annual loss of about N4 trillion due to traffic congestion.
According to a survey by Numbeo, the traffic index encompasses time consumed in traffic due to job commute, estimation of time consumption dissatisfaction, carbon dioxide (CO2) consumption estimation in traffic, and overall inefficiencies in the traffic system.
The survey also revealed that traveling to work, school produces 2,000.38kg of CO2 annually per passenger and necessitates 91.89 trees for each passenger to produce enough oxygen.
Furthermore, public transport in Lagos faces challenges such as overcrowded buses, unauthorized bus stops, and irregular schedules. The increasing cost of transportation is also a concern for Lagos residents.
To address these challenges, the government can consider subsidies and investment in an affordable Railbus option. Railbus, a form of green transportation, offers convenience, safety, efficiency, low pollution, and a diversified urban transportation system.
According to RAILBUS Inc., “Railbus is more than a solution for transportation problems; it creates and supports sustainable development in any country.”
Railbus operates on hybrid-electric solar power, reducing environmental pollution and addressing the high cost of transportation concerns among residents and visitors.
This elevated system provides an alternative transportation solution, easing congestion on roads and offering a safe and comfortable way to travel.
Embracing eco-friendly technologies such as Railbuses is crucial if Nigeria aims to meet the Net Zero target by 2050.
