Recently, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo Olu commissioned the newly procured seven high-capacity passenger boats.
According to reports, the boats were built to international standards and equipped with modern gadgets, such as WiFi, GPS, Echo Sounder, VHF Radio, USB Charging ports, 13amp sockets, television and radio, toolbox, First Aid box, and fire extinguishers.
However, this new reform poses new dawn of development that breeds potential benefits to Lagos State and her residents.
Here are the four potential benefits of the Lagos Waterways Transportation System.
Economic Boost
Again, this is another factor that cannot be over-emphasized, as the new Lagos Waterway Transport System will boost the internally generated revenue (IGR) of Lagos State.
Also, the Lagos State Government confirmed the newly procured boats will adopt the cowry digital payment method being used by the state-owned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) which will help monitor payments of commuters and ensure accountability.
The State Deputy-Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, during the commissioning of the newly procured seven high-capacity passenger boats said;
“We are also launching the Cowry Card for water transportation to create a seamless payment scheme for our Multimodal Transportation System, which is gradually taking shape as we have commenced the integration of our rail lines, bus terminals, and waterways.
However, another important thing to note is that if the waterways transport system records maximum success, it may also attract not just tourists but potential investors that will strengthen the waterways infrastructure thereby creating rapid growth and transition in Lagos State economy.
Less Gridlock/Alternative Mobility
“I am pleased to inform you that we are already witnessing positive outcomes from our investment in the safety and viability of our waterways as a safe alternative to road transportation.” These were the words of Lagos State Deputy-Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
What this means to Lagosians is that it will reduce gridlock in areas that are aquatic, especially the Apapa axis, as cargos can easily be transported from one community to another instead of using heavy-duty vehicles.
Fewer accidents on the highway
The incessant road accidents in Lagos state have been very alarming, has there is still no functioning and working solution to this menace. These accidents are usually caused by bad roads, congestion, poor road network as well as reckless driving.
In a way, this new initiative can be seen as a veritable solution to road accidents, reduction in highway congestion/gridlock as well as reducing the numerous heavy-duty trucks plying the highways of Lagos.
In addition, the proposed Lagos State Rail Line, which will be situated in Yaba will also create a balance in the transports system within Lagos as it serves as alternative mobility and preference to commuters.
Tourism/Recreation
The procurement of state-of-the-art boats for the Lagos waterways gives room for another fun-centered recreational side attraction for Lagosians and tourists.
Tourists around the world will definitely fancy a boat ride and see the aquatic view of one of Africa’s most populous cities.
Also, it will serve as an alternative recreation for Lagosians who will troop in for a boat cruise especially during festive seasons and special events.
