Here’s the Lowdown:
- Who Benefits? Civil servants, retirees, and students (primary to tertiary level).
- How Long? Free rides for the first six months, then a 60% fare subsidy for everyone.
- Why? Governor Uba Sani wants to support the people of Kaduna State.
- When does it start? Some buses hit the roads.
Free Rides for Kaduna Residents – Here’s What You Need to Know!
The Kaduna State Government is introducing a free transport service for its hardworking civil servants, respected retirees, and eager students. According to the Director General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Inuwa Ibrahim, this initiative is part of the Kaduna Subsidised Transport Scheme (KSTS) and is designed to provide relief and improve the overall well-being of these key groups within the state.
Who Gets to Ride for Free?
For the first six months, civil servants, retirees, and students from primary to tertiary levels will enjoy completely free rides. After that, a substantial 60% transport fare subsidy will be available to the general public. This shows the government’s commitment to long-term support.
Governor’s Commitment to the People
The Director General emphasized that this initiative reflects Governor Uba Sani’s dedication to the welfare of civil servants, senior citizens, and students in Kaduna State. It’s all about making life a little easier for those who contribute to the state’s progress.
How to Hop On Board
The free transport service will operate with strict guidelines to ensure order, security, and efficient service delivery. Here’s what you need to know:
- Civil Servants: Must present a valid staff identity card and a matching National Identification Number (NIN). This is to prevent misuse and ensure only genuine government workers benefit.
- Students: Students from both public and private schools must be in their complete school uniforms to board the buses.
- Security Personnel: All personnel of recognized security agencies are eligible to access the buses, upon proper identification.
The Routes
During the free service period, the buses will ply three specific routes:
- Route One: Rigachikun – Kawo – Kasuwa – Sabo; and Sabo – Kasuwa – Kawo – Rigachikun
- Route Two: Rigachikun – Kawo – Independence Way – Yakowa Road; and Yakowa Road – Independence Way – Kawo – Rigachikun
- Route Three: Tudun Wada – Poly Road – Sokoto Road – Kawo; and Kawo – Sokoto Road – Poly Road – Tudun Wada
A Word of Advice
The Director General urged commuters to avoid unnecessary rushing and queue jumping when boarding the buses. Law and order will be strictly maintained to ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone.
Background: CNG Buses
It’s worth remembering that President Bola Tinubu recently commissioned 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses at Murtala Mohammed Square during a state visit. This move is part of a broader push for more sustainable and cost-effective transportation solutions. The commissioning, covered by Channels TV (Channels TV), highlights the government’s commitment to modernizing the transport sector.
This free bus service is a welcome development for the people of Kaduna, promising to ease transportation costs and improve their daily lives. It remains to be seen how the implementation will unfold, but the initiative is a positive step towards a more supportive and people-centered government.