Lagos re-establishes right of way along red line rail corridor

• Begins removal of illegal structures at computer village

To ensure smooth operation of the Lagos Red Line Rail, the state government, at the weekend, re-established the Right of Way (RoW) of the light rail infrastructure.

Speaking during a special enforcement operation by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development (MPP&UD), in collaboration with the State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Commissioner in the ministry, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, said encroachment of the Red Line corridor would no longer be tolerated. This is because it not only impedes operations, but also jeopardises lives and wellbeing of those involved. He said the state government was committed to delivering the project as scheduled to ease transportation, while being mindful of safety of lives and property.

The commissioner directed the enforcement team of LASBCA to ensure the complete removal of all illegal structures along the corridor. Also, the Special Adviser to the governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, explained that the Red Line rail was designed as a fast train system with expected intervals of 10 minutes, and performance could be jeopardised by any untoward development within the route.

The General Manager, LASBCA, Gbolahan Oki, while addressing residents and traders in the affected areas, urged them to cooperate with the government to prevent any potential harm by ensuring that the areas were fully vacated.

“The Lagos State government remains committed to providing efficient and safe transportation solutions for its residents. The enforcement operation along the Red Line corridor is a clear demonstration of this commitment,” he added.

Recall that the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had previously visited some of the train stations, warning traders against using the Red Line corridors for trading activities.

The enforcement operation, which also had in attendance key management staff of LASBCA, commenced at Alagbado Train Station, through Iju Ishaga, Agege, Mushin, Yaba and ended at Ebute Metta Train Station.

Also, the state, yesterday, started removing shanties and illegal structures at Computer Village, Ikeja. Confirming the development, Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Kunle Adeshina, told The Guardian that the team was out to remove illegal structures, attachments, and shanties on drainages, setbacks and those on the streets that make up Computer Village. These structures, he said, constitute environmental nuisance to the village and adjoining streets.