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File photo of Lagos traffic congestion
By CHIAZO OGBOLU
The Lagos State Government is to begin enforcement of its Electronic Call-Up (e-Call-Up) system for tankers and other articulated vehicles operating on the Lekki-Epe Corridor with effect from June 16.
The government said that the enforcement would be in an effort to enhance logistics coordination and reduce traffic congestion to save about four trillion naira for the state residents.
The Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa, disclosed in a statement on Friday.
The statement was signed by Mrs Bolanle Ogunlola, Deputy Director Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation.
According to Giwa, Lagos residents lose an average of four hours daily to traffic congestion, resulting in an estimated four trillion naira loss annually.
Giwa attributed much of the gridlock to unregulated parking, disorderly loading and unloading activities on major logistics routes.
He added that enforcement of the e-Call-Up system was also aimed at improving road safety.
“All articulated vehicle drivers entering Lagos to load or offload goods must now register and schedule their movements through the e-Call-Up platform.
“The digital system is designed to coordinate truck movements, reduce indiscriminate roadside parking, and minimise disruptions to other road users.
“Under the new system, tanker operators will be required to upload their Authority to Load (ATL) and pre-book assigned parking slots before arriving in Lagos.
“The e-Call-Up platform will also collect vital travel and cargo information, enabling efficient allocation of designated parking spaces,” Giwa said.
The official said that the facilities would be equipped with basic amenities such as restrooms, kitchens and electricity to ensure the comfort and safety of drivers.
Giwa disclosed that the state government had approved seven dedicated truck parks on the Lekki-Epe axis to support implementation of the policy.
He said that the policy was the outcome of over two years of extensive stakeholder engagement.
The special adviser said that it formed a critical part of the state’s broader transportation reform agenda aimed at transforming Lagos into a smart, resilient and livable city. (NAN)