The return of intercity rail service to Bauchi and its surroundings has been welcomed by certain local inhabitants.
In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi, a cross-section of the locals praised the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) for the accomplishment.
They said that the action will improve transportation and support the state’s social and economic growth.
According to NAN, the NRC unveiled the five-kilometer rail line that connects Bauchi to the Inkil hamlet along the Bauchi-Gombe Expressway on Monday through its North-East District office.
Due to the Boko Haram conflict and vandalism of its facilities in the state, the Corporation has had to cease rail services for the previous ten years.
Michael Habu, a local, stated that the reinstatement of the rail service would make it easier for residents to travel between the Bauchi metropolis and the neighboring communities.
He declared, “I would be traveling to Bauchi by train once the rail service has resumed.
A shopkeeper named Grace Audu claimed that the restart of rail service in the region would make life simpler.
According to her, more people would choose trains over bikes or commercial tricycles because they are less expensive than outrageous transportation costs.
Aliyu Makaniki, a different local, claimed that previously suspended commercial operations would start up again at the train station.
According to him, the rail service would also spur economic development and improve the quality of life for many locals who depend on railroad-related businesses.
In light of its significance for the social and economic growth of the state and the nation as a whole, he urged the NRC to raise the standard of services offered by the railway authorities.
Mudi Sagir, a different local who applauded the effort, claimed that it will introduce children who don’t know much about trains to how they work.
“One of the nicest things to happen to the residents of this community is the restart of rail services.
“You can see the joy on their faces; we are all pleased with the developments. Perhaps it survives because of its significance to society, he suggested.
Additionally, Aliyu Mainasara, the Railway District Manager, said that each trip would cost N200 and that security would be present to safeguard lives and property.
He claims that the train is equipped with 100 seats and comfortable amenities.
