The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority says it will introduce a short code that will enable residents, especially the motoring public, to engage and share information on the road.

The general manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in an interview on Monday.

“The agency is working on ensuring that we get a short code instead of the long digit that is currently running.

“In the next two to three weeks, our call centre will come up with a short code that will be free. We have done all the necessary details. We are just waiting for the final approval from the network provider.

“This is where Lagos residents, especially the motoring public, can engage us and give us information,” he said.

He added that machinery and all equipment are currently being installed to enable the agency to kick-start the short code.

He pointed out that information expected from residents includes, especially, the conduct of officers on the road, emergency situations, congestion, feedback, or any information they deem fit to pass.

He added that, presently, there are 10 responders in LASTMA’s digital call centre, and Lagos residents can reach the agency in Yoruba, English, and vernacular.

He noted that a robust and cordial relationship on road issues existed with sister major responders, including the Lagos State Ambulance Service, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services, the police, the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority, and others.

Mr Bakare-Oki said that between January and March, the agency received almost 300 calls. He, however, said there was a shortfall, attributing it to the integration of the short code in the agency.

“The system has  been experiencing downtime because of the integration.

“We give the assurance that in the next two or three weeks, we will be back on board strong and with better service delivery to Lagos residents,” he said.

(NAN)