Lagos is set to enhance its rail system with the addition of six new trains, following the completion of successful safety trials in China. This update was shared by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) in a statement on Thursday via its official X account.
The new trains are planned to operate on both the Blue and Red Lines of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) network. Currently, the Blue Line provides 72 daily trips along its 13-kilometre stretch between Marina and Mile 2. This service officially launched in September 2023 under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
According to the LAMATA statement, “The introduction of these new train sets will greatly enhance service frequency.” The expanded fleet is expected to boost passenger capacity and further improve the rail system’s economic efficiency.
Expansion Plans
The new trains will also support the extension of the Blue Line to Okokomaiko, a 14-kilometre expansion from Mile 2. This second phase is projected to be completed by early 2027, significantly extending the network’s reach and accessibility.
The Blue Line’s first phase, inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2023, marked a significant step in Lagos State’s efforts to upgrade its public transportation infrastructure. The planned expansion aligns with the government’s long-term vision of meeting the mobility needs of Lagos’s rapidly growing population.
Increased Capacity and Economic Impact
The additional trains will bolster the Blue Line’s current operations between Marina and Mile 2, enhancing the system’s capacity to accommodate more passengers and reduce waiting times. LAMATA emphasized that the expanded fleet would play a key role in improving the efficiency and reliability of the rail network, ultimately contributing to the city’s economic growth.
This development reflects Lagos State’s commitment to providing modern, efficient, and sustainable transport solutions for its residents while addressing the city’s increasing demand for reliable public transportation.
