The Kaduna government says it plans to deploy 120 compressed natural gas-powered articulated buses on a 24-kilometre Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor to improve urban transportation and create thousands of jobs.

The acting director-general of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Inuwa Ibrahim, disclosed this during a media engagement on the proposed BRT project in Kaduna on Tuesday.

The scheme is expected to generate between 10,000 and 20,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities along the corridor.

Mr Ibrahim said the project, which would be the first BRT system in Kaduna, had reached the implementation stage after the completion of its planning and design.

“We are expecting to have about 20,000 jobs just for this BRT corridor of just 24 kilometres,” Mr Ibrahim said.

According to him, the jobs would include opportunities for drivers, mechanics and other personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of the system.

He said the deployment of CNG-powered buses would also provide commuters with a more affordable and environmentally friendly transportation option.

Mr Ibrahim described CNG as cheaper and cleaner than conventional fuel, saying its use would contribute to reducing emissions and improving the urban environment.

The proposed BRT system will include dedicated bus lanes, modern bus stops, shelters and terminals to facilitate faster and more efficient movement of commuters.

(NAN)