The Nigerian Railway Corporation ( NRC) has announced that it would soon commence train operations on the Abuja- Kaduna corridor even as 21 passengers are still missing.
The Director of Operations, Niyi Alli disclosed this in a statement on Thursday on behalf of the Managing Director, Fidet Okhiria.
TheFact Nigeria recalled that on March 28, terrorists with Improvised Explosive Device launched an attack on the kaduna -bound AK9 train.
However the corporation said the south end of the tracks which was destroyed by the explosion, has been successfully joined with the north end.
He said the connection of the AKTS line has been achieved, which implies that the major track components, Concrete Sleepers and Rails have been completely laid.
Niyi said passengers will be required to provide their NIN registration for verification prior to purchasing train tickets. This he said , will improve Passenger profiling and safety on-board.
The statement said, “As we have mentioned in our earlier releases, the Abuja – Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) will resume soon with additional security measures put in place.
“The Technical Team continued with other track stabilization works including Ballasting, Temping, Fastening of accessories (clips, bolts and nuts) and Welding. 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.
“The Corporation is committed to the safety of all our Passengers and Staff on board the ill-fated Ak9 train service. We will continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure all persons being held are rescued unhurt and reunited with their families, soonest.
“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 28th March, 2022.
“In compliance with Mr. President’s directive, we encourage anyone still looking for a loved one or for update to please contact the following numbers in our situation room:Mrs. Lola 08023310145 and Mr. Mahmood 07038356015”, the statement noted.
The NRC further expressed its profound gratitude to the security agencies for the continued support, especially for the security cover available to its officials and staff at the incident site, adding that the Corporation will continue to update the general public of the latest developments.
