Kano State government, on Saturday, flagged off a Smart Transport Solution aimed at improving transportation management and security in the state, through deployment of modern tracking technology.

Speaking during the flag-off, the state’s commissioner for transport, Haruna Isa-Dederi, described the initiative as a technological innovation which will enhance safety and efficiency in Kano’s transport sector.

He said that the system, which is new in Kano, is already being utilised in major cities worldwide.

“By the time anyone arrives in Kano, the system ensures they are captured at the station and monitored through cameras as they move into the city.

“Information is transmitted in real-time to the Police, Ministry of Transportation, and the Cabinet Office,” he explained.

He noted that the initiative targets all commercial vehicles, including tricycles, taxis, buses, trailers, tankers, and jeeps, with plans to extend same to private vehicles.

Mr Isa-Dederi also emphasised the importance of private-sector involvement, noting that the initiative aligns with the state’s comprehensive transport policy which provides a legal framework to encourage investment in road and rail infrastructure.

The commissioner noted that full deployment of the system will commence on Monday, following awareness and training sessions with transport unions and local government members.

On his part, head of operations of As & Aj Company, Aminu Umar-Maigari, said the system, which integrates information technology into transport operations, is designed to protect commuters, public property and improve transport management.

“This initiative would improve transparency and accountability in transport operations” he said.

Mr Umar-Maigari added that the application is free for users, with minimal costs for Know Your Customer (KYC) registration and tracker installation at the sum of N28,000 with 10 per cent subsidy by the government for first one million subscribers.

On his part, chairman of the Vehicle Owners and Transporters of Nigeria (VOTOR), Nazifi Gidan-Kudi, commended the initiative, describing same as timely and necessary.

He said the Smart Transport Solution would help check excesses among commercial vehicle operators, address unsafe driving and riding practices, and enhance overall security across the state.

The event was attended by representatives of the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), State Security Service (SSS), and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

Others in attendance included theNational Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Taxi Amana, and Kano State Mini Trucks Drivers Association, among others.

(NAN)