By Paul Michael, Defence Editor, Abuja
The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) said the destroyed rail track access between Abuja and Kaduna has been restored.
This was contained in a statement by NRC’s Director of Operations, Mr Niyi Alli, on Thursday in Lagos, saying the Managing Director of the Corporation, Mr Fidet Okhiria, confirmed the development.
Okhiria explained that the south end of the tracks, destroyed by explosion, had been successfully joined with the north end.
He said, “In our concerted efforts at restoring the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) tracks corridor for resumption of service, please note the latest updates as follows:
“The connection of the AKTS line has been achieved. This implies that the major track components (Concrete Sleepers and Rails) have been completely laid.
“The south end of the tracks (which was destroyed by the explosion), has been successfully joined with the north end. Track access between Abuja and Kaduna is now restored.”
Okhiria further stated that the technical team would continue with other track stabilisation works including Ballasting, Temping, fastening of accessories (clips, bolts and nuts) and Welding.
He recalled that the Loco 2502 which was involved in the accident, though not damaged, but trapped at the Rigasa end due to lack of route access, has now crossed to the Idu end.
The managing director added this had been taken to the workshop for proper examination and routine maintenance.
Okhiria said that as mentioned in earlier releases, the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) would resume soon with additional security measures put in place.
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He said going forward passengers would be required to provide their NIN registration for verification prior to purchasing train tickets, adding that this would improve passenger profiling and safety on board.
“We will continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure that all persons being held are rescued unhurt and reunited with their families soon.
“We continue to pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate attack.
“We also pray that Almighty God continues to grant the families of those who lost loved ones, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“We equally pray for the full recovery of those injured in the ill-fated AK9 train service of 28 March 2022,” Okhiria said.
He further stated that in compliance with President Muhammadu Buhari’s directive, anyone still looking for a loved one or for update regarding the train attack should contact the following numbers in its situation room: Mrs Lola 08023310145 and Mr Mahmood 07038356015.
He said as customary, the corporation would update the general public on the latest developments.
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