Lagosians are set to experience a new chapter in public transportation as the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line commences partial, invitational passenger operations on Wednesday.
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), in a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, announced that the Red Line trains will run four trips daily between Oyingbo and Agbado, connecting key areas of Lagos and Ogun State.
In a move to make Lagosians a part of this historic milestone, LAMATA has invited residents to join a free ride scheme by scanning a code to fill out an invitational form before commercial operations begin.
Red Line Trial Run Time Table Released
LAMATA has released the trial run timetable for the Red Line’s initial phase. The schedule features morning and afternoon trips for both northbound (Oyingbo to Agbado) and southbound (Agbado to Oyingbo) routes:
- Northbound (Oyingbo to Agbado):
- AM Trip: Starts at 8:30 AM from Oyingbo with stops at Yaba, Mushin, Oshodi, Ikeja, Agege, Iju, and arrives at Agbado at 9:37 AM.
- PM Trip: Starts at 12:40 PM from Oyingbo with the same stops, arriving at Agbado at 1:47 PM.
- Southbound (Agbado to Oyingbo):
- AM Trip: Starts at 10:30 AM from Agbado with stops at Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and arrives at Oyingbo at 11:37 AM.
- PM Trip: Starts at 2:50 PM from Agbado with the same stops, arriving at Oyingbo at 3:57 PM.
The Red Line is a significant component of Lagos’ Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP), which envisions a network of six rail lines and one monorail to modernize the city’s transport infrastructure.
It serves as a critical link for many workers and business owners residing in Ogun State but working in Lagos, offering a more reliable and efficient commuting option.
LAMATA emphasized that the partial operation marks the culmination of extensive planning, staff training, and a successful six-week trial run without passengers. These efforts were aimed at ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the rail system.
“To ensure a safe and efficient start to operations, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) urges the public to refrain from trespassing on the railway tracks and avoid causing unnecessary congestion or accidents along the rail corridor. Your cooperation is crucial as we embark on this historic feat,” Ojelabi stated.
With the commencement of the Red Line’s partial operations, Lagos moves closer to achieving a modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation system, promising a significant boost to the quality of life for residents.