The Federal Government on Thursday said it has completed repair of the damaged track on the Abuja-Kaduna rail line.
This was disclosed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Engr. Fidet Okhiria, in a statement by Engr. Niyi Ali.
Okhiria said, “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.
“The Technical Team continues with other track stabilization works including Ballasting, Temping, Fastening of accessories (clips, bolts and nuts) and Welding.”
The managing director added that “loco 2502 which was involved in the accident (though not damaged) and trapped at the Rigasa end due to lack of route access has now crossed to the Idu end and taken to the Workshop for proper examination and routine maintenance.”
He said “the Abuja – Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) will resume soon with additional security measures put in place.”
Okhiria said when the trains resume, “passengers will be required to provide their NIN registration for verification prior to purchasing train tickets. This is for improved Passenger profiling and safety on-board.”
On March 28, terrorists bombed the train in Kaduna, killing nine persons, injuring 28 others, while 62 others were abducted.
