The Cross River commissioner for transportation, Ekpenyong Cobham, says the completion of the Grand Littoral Rail Project is being hampered by what he calls Federal bottlenecks.

Mr Cobham, in an interview on Wednesday in Calabar, highlighted the ministry’s achievements and ongoing transportation reforms.

“This delay is unrelated to the state. It is stalled by federal bottlenecks. We are hopeful that the outstanding approvals will soon be secured for construction to commence,” he said.

On assumption of office, Governor Bassey Otu noted his administration’s desire to construct a rail system that would connect the South to Northern Cross River, a busy agricultural route.

The commissioner said that the State Executive Council has approved the operational vehicle for the rail infrastructure, paving the way for implementation.

Mr Cobham said the ministry inherited weak administrative structures in August 2023 and initially operated with only two staff members. He said the ministry strengthened its workforce and tackled immediate transport challenges alongside developing long-term strategies for sustainable transportation.

The commissioner said, “The government introduced state transport colours, security numbers and a reliable database to improve commuter safety and curb criminal activities. Six dilapidated bus stops were rehabilitated while consultants conducted a comprehensive transportation pre-feasibility study to guide sector reforms.”

Mr Cobham said investors had shown interest through the public-private partnerships to develop intercity shuttle services, trailer parks and other transport infrastructure.

He disclosed that the government acquired 10 electric city buses, 20 shuttle buses, 500 electric tricycles and 200 electric motorcycles to reduce transport costs. According to him, electric mobility will lower operating costs, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and save commuters between N300 and N400 per day.

“Beneficiaries of the electric tricycles would emerge through the state Youth Empowerment Scheme, while private operators would manage the city buses,” he said.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding transportation infrastructure, saying the current investments represent the foundation for a modern and sustainable transport ecosystem.

The Grand Littoral Rail Project is designed to connect the Tinapa Free Zone Resort in Calabar to Obudu; the railway aims to revolutionise tourism, enhance regional connectivity, and link key economic zones across the state.

Cross River is partnering with Rinehooke Investments Ltd. to build the Grand Litora Railway with substations in Ugep, Ikom, and Ogoja.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in August 2024, and the project is intended to boost tourism, trade, and regional development within the state. 

(NAN)