The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) says the pilot phase of its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses for passenger operations will soon begin on the Marina/CMS to Lekki and Ajah-Epe routes.

LAMATA’s consultant, corporate communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

Mr Ojelabi said under the pilot phase, 10 high occupancy vehicles would be deployed for the service.

“The operation, franchised to a bus operating company named Femadec, will progressively increase the number of buses to 100 after data has proven the sustainability of the use of CNG.

“The deployment of buses powered by CNG will provide useful data for a future decision on the wholesome wide use of such buses for passenger transit operations in Lagos.

“CNG burns cleaner and reduces carbon monoxide by more than 80 per cent compared to traditional petrol and diesel.

“CNG-powered vehicles also run quieter than gasoline and diesel vehicles, which results in less noise pollution,” he said.

Mr Ojelabi said the bus operating company would have its operational base at the Ajah Terminal, and would also use the bus shelters along the Lekki-Epe corridor for its operation.

Mr Ojelabi noted that the fare card, Cowry, would be used to pay for bus services.

(NAN)