Abia To Launch CNG Buses Amid New Restrictions On Tricycles, Motorcycles In Aba, Umuahia

The Abia government has announced plans to secure Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to improve the state’s transport system, following the recent implementation of a policy that limits the operational hours of tricycles and motorcycles in Umuahia and Aba.

Mr Okey Kanu, the state Commissioner for Information and Culture, announced on Monday during a press conference at Government House in Umuahia following the State Executive Council meeting.

Kanu stated that the planned introduction of CNG buses is required to fill the gap created by the new policy, which limits the operating hours of tricycles and motorcycles in Umuahia and Aba to 6 AM to 7 pm.

“As part of the initiatives and incentives to drive this new policy, Abia Government plans to introduce CNG-powered buses to close up whatever gaps that will be created by the full implementation of this restriction policy,” Kanu said.

Kanu also announced that the Abia State Government has postponed the enforcement of the restriction policy for tricycles and motorcycles from July 1 to August 1. This decision aims to sustain extended business hours in Aba and Umuahia and respond to the public’s pleas and feedback.

Kanu stated that tricycle and motorcycle operators interested in CNG-powered buses could obtain them by forming cooperatives and working in groups.

“The goal is to ensure that people have access to these buses and do not miss out on earning income,” he stated.

He described the introduction of CNG-powered buses as a measure to ensure that commuters can get around the state, particularly in Aba and Umuahia, once the restriction orders go into effect.

Furthermore, Kanu stated that preparations, such as the enumeration and registration of all commercial vehicles by the restriction policy, have begun as planned. These steps, he stated, are critical to the official implementation of the restriction policy on August 1.

The Abia State Government banned tricycles and motorcycles from operating between 7 PM and 6 AM in Aba and Umuahia starting July 1.

This decision aims to improve security by reducing criminal activity, which is frequently carried out using these vehicles after hours.

A key component of the policy is the mandatory registration of all commercial vehicles, which allows the government and security agencies to accurately identify owners and operators, improving security and accountability.

A government committee has been formed to oversee the policy’s implementation, which will be chaired by Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd), the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security.

The committee’s primary responsibility is to ensure that all commercial vehicle operators in the state comply with the new regulations.