Abia state government has mapped out routes for the new electric buses procured for the state’s mass transit scheme during the official launch of the buses.
The development follows the arrival of the first batch of electric buses produced by Coscharis for the transport scheme. Abia State remains the first state in Nigeria to procure electric buses for use within the state.
Reportedly, the new EV buses would operate from Umuahia, the capital city, and Aba, the state’s commercial nerve centre. Startup routes are as follows.
Umuahia
- Isi-gate to Ubakala
- Okpara Square to Express Tower
Aba
- Osisioma to park
- Park to Ala-oji through port Harcourt Road
Apart from these routes, the new EV buses would also run intercity operations connecting Umuahia with Aba, with two daily trips.
On ethics and customer service, each of the new EV buses is expected to have a pilot and a Co-pilot. Commuters would be treated on a first-come, first-served basis, leaving no room for seat reservation.
The mass transit scheme is a new development in Abia State and is bound to have many errors and initial challenges as the city adjusts to the new system. The bus management called for understanding and patience as the initiative eases itself into the Abia state society.
The new EV buses were mass-produced by Coscharis Motors, which announced its entry into indigenous car manufacturing with the deal. The first batch of buses arrived this month, prompting the official launch by the Abia state management.
Dignitaries at the launching event include the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Alex Otti, and other top cabinet members.
Abia state joins Enugu state in introducing new buses to its mass transit scheme. Enugu State, under Peter Mbah, introduced CNG-powered buses and built five new terminals.
