By Uzor Odigbo
Following search for lasting solutions to the perennial Apapa gridlock, a Russian-based transport technology has suggested movement of cargoes from Nigerian Ports through strings and overpass across the country.
The firm, Skyway String Transport Technology said such move would put an end to the numerous challenges faced by stakeholders in the corridor.
Skyway is a concept of an elevated transport system. The main elements to skyway transport and infrastructure complex include; optimised aerodynamics and increased speed.
It maintained that it also had unprecedented safety, rational use of land resources and minimise environmental damage caused by transport.
It was also gathered that the company has commenced dialogue with some state governments on the need to embrace and promote the technological transport system.
Speaking with newsmen in Lagos, shareholder of the technological transport firm and President of Nigerian Institute of Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers (NIFFCB), Dr. Zebulon Ikokide stated that the outfit had what it takes to solve the numerous challenges faced by the total logistics chain in the country.
Ikokide who also doubles as a board member of Chartered Institute of Transport Administration in Nigeria (CIoTA), noted that the numerous advantages by the transport system would provide seamless movement of cargoes in and out of the seaports .
Aside ports operation, Ikokide stated that the technology will also provide movement of passengers from point A to B, adding that the ‘’Transport should be a solution to problems not their source.
While harping on how the technology can assist to aid movement of consignments from the ports,the NIFFCB boss affirmed that ‘’Skyway system can meet a wide range of transportation demands that can offer the possibility of efficient passenger and cargo transportation for any distance under natural and climatic conditions ; especially in Apapa.
‘’Skyway transport is designed for cargo transportation for distance of about 500km or more .The cargo rolling stock is based on suspended urban passenger unibuses.
He also called on the government at state and federal levels to embrace the new technology in the transport sub sector pointing out that the cost of construction and operation is significantly lower compared to the existing transport solution.
Ikokide added that all types of Skyway transportation systems are distinguished by energy ,efficiency, minimal adverse environmental impact and a high safety level of passenger and cargo transport.
