There is the need for modernisation, efficiency and environmental impact assessment as the new FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, has been presented with a unique opportunity to shape the future of Abuja’s public transportation system. Among the many challenges facing the city, the issue of vehicular age and its impact on both transportation efficiency and security have come to the forefront. A bold move to limit public transportation vehicles to those that are not older than 5-10 years could have far-reaching benefits for the city’s residents, the environment, and overall urban security.
Abuja, as the political and administrative hub of Nigeria, deserves a world-class public transportation system that promotes efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. With an increasing population and traffic congestion, the existing transportation infrastructure often falls short of meeting these demands. By implementing a policy that restricts public transportation vehicles to a maximum age of 10 years, Minister Wike can lay the foundation for a modern and efficient transportation network.
Older vehicles tend to have higher maintenance costs and are less fuel-efficient, contributing to higher operational expenses for transport operators and leading to elevated fares for passengers. Introducing newer vehicles will not only reduce maintenance costs but also minimize emissions and support the government’s efforts to combat air pollution and environmental degradation. A fleet of well-maintained, fuel-efficient vehicles will not only benefit passengers but also contribute to a cleaner and healthier Abuja.
The security of residents and commuters is of paramount importance in any thriving city and this can be enhanced through vehicle regulation. Older vehicles are more prone to breakdowns and technical failures, leading to traffic congestion, delays, and potential safety hazards. By mandating a maximum vehicle age of 5-10 years for public transportation, Wike can significantly reduce the risks associated with breakdowns and enhance overall passenger safety.
Furthermore, newer vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features such as airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and rear-view cameras. These features provide an added layer of protection for both drivers and passengers, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. By modernizing the public transportation fleet, the minister can contribute to a safer commuting experience for all.
The introduction of a policy to limit vehicle age for public transportation can also stimulate economic growth and job creation. As older vehicles are phased out, there will be an increased demand for newer vehicles, which will encourage investments in the automotive industry. This, in turn, can lead to the creation of new jobs, both in manufacturing and in related services such as vehicle maintenance, repair, and technology installation.
Abuja, like any major city, has faced its share of security concerns, including those related to taxis. While taxis are generally a convenient mode of transportation, there have been instances of security risks associated with them from incidents of ‘one-chance’ kidnapping, extortion, terrorism, rape, robberies, scams, harassment, violence and even cases of passengers being targeted by criminals posing as taxi drivers. In Abuja, as well as in other cities in Nigeria and globally, there have been reports of security incidents involving taxis. Passengers have been advised to exercise caution when using taxis and to take certain precautions to ensure their safety some of which include but are not limited to:
– Using licensed taxis: Whenever possible, opt for registered and licensed taxis. These taxis are often subject to regulations and oversight, which can enhance passenger safety.
– Verifying Identity: Before entering a taxi, verify that the driver’s identification and license are prominently displayed. Ensure that the vehicle has proper markings and identification as well.
– Sharing ride details: When taking a taxi, share your ride details with a friend or family member. This can include information about the taxi company, the driver’s name, and the vehicle’s license plate/ plate number
– Avoiding unmarked taxis: Avoid taking unmarked or unofficial taxis as they may not adhere to proper safety standards.
– Using ride-hailing apps: If available, consider using reputable ride-hailing apps that provide information about the driver, the vehicle, and the estimated fare.
– Sitting at the back: Whenever possible, sit at the back seat of the taxi. This provides some distance and security from the driver.
– Staying alert: Pay attention to the route the driver takes. If you suspect that you’re being taken on an unnecessarily long route, voice your concern.
– Trusting your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to ask the driver to stop and exit the vehicle in a safe location.
It’s important to note that security concerns can vary over time and in different areas of the city. The minister should ensure that local authorities, law enforcement, and transportation regulators take measures to address these concerns and ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
Ensuring the safety of passengers riding in Abuja green taxis, or any taxis for that matter, requires a multi-faceted approach that involves a combination of technology, regulations, public awareness, and cooperation between relevant stakeholders. Here are some potential solutions to guarantee the safety of passengers:
– Regulation and licensing: Strengthen the regulatory framework for taxi services in Abuja. Enforce strict licensing requirements for taxi drivers and vehicles, ensuring that all drivers undergo background checks, psychological tests, driving tests, and have valid licenses. Licensed taxis should display clear identification, including driver names and license numbers.
– Use of technology:
* GPS and tracking: Implement GPS technology in taxis to enable real-time tracking of routes and locations. This ensures that drivers are following safe and efficient routes.
* Emergency buttons: Integrate emergency buttons or panic alarms in taxis that passengers can use in case of emergencies or suspicious situations.
* In-car cameras: Install cameras inside taxis to record both the driver and passenger areas, providing a record of the ride and acting as a deterrent against potential misconduct.
– Ride-hailing apps:
* Encourage the use of reputable ride-hailing apps that provide passengers with detailed information about the driver, vehicle, and estimated fare before the ride begins.
* Enable features like sharing ride details with friends or family members, as well as providing real-time tracking and SOS options through the app.
– Driver training:
* Mandate comprehensive training for taxi drivers on customer service, safety protocols, and how to handle emergency situations.
– Provide education on appropriate behaviour and respectful treatment of passengers.
– Public awareness campaigns:
* Launch public awareness campaigns to educate passengers about safety precautions they should take when using taxis. This includes sharing information about licensed taxis, using apps, and trusting their instincts.
– Law enforcement and monitoring:
* Increase police presence and monitoring at taxi stands, major pick-up points, and high-traffic areas to deter criminal activity and ensure compliance with regulations.
– Feedback mechanisms:
* Establish a feedback mechanism for passengers to report both positive and negative experiences with taxi services. Use this feedback to improve service quality and address safety concerns.
– Collaboration with taxi associations:
* Work closely with taxi associations and unions to ensure that their members adhere to safety regulations and standards.
* Involve associations in safety initiatives and campaigns to foster a sense of collective responsibility.
– Emergency response infrastructure:
* Develop a robust emergency response infrastructure that enables quick response to distress calls or panic alarms from taxis.
– Public-private partnerships:
* Foster collaborations between the government, law enforcement agencies, taxi companies, and technology providers to create a comprehensive safety ecosystem.
The FCT minister should remember that safety is an ongoing effort that requires continuous evaluation and adaptation. Regular assessments of the effectiveness of safety measures, along with adjustments based on emerging technologies and changing circumstances will be crucial to maintaining a safe environment for passengers using green taxis in Abuja.
As the FCT minister embarks on his journey to transform the Federal Capital Territory, the revitalization of the public transportation system must remain a priority. Restricting the use of vehicles for public transportation to those not older than 5-10 years is a visionary step that aligns with the city’s aspirations for efficiency, security, and sustainability. By fostering a modernized fleet, Minister Wike can leave an indelible mark on Abuja, elevating it to the ranks of world-class cities with thriving public transportation systems.
With this crucial policy, Abuja has the potential to set an example for other cities in Nigeria and across the African continent. By embracing innovation, efficiency, and security, Wike can lead Abuja into a new era of urban mobility that benefits all its residents.
Alhassan, a concerned citizen, writes from Abuja.
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