May 04, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) recently drew attention to the incessant attacks on its train operations along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor by suspected vandals and criminals.
In one of such incidents, which reportedly occurred at a spot along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, some unknown persons reportedly gathered along the rail track and started throwing stones at a moving train, causing damage to the windscreen of the locomotive.
The NRC noted with deep concern that similar attacks have been witnessed in other locations, including Sarki Gora Village and Kakau District in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, among others, a development that is posing a serious danger to railway operations, passengers and operational personnel.
Similar incidents have so far been recorded in more than six locations along the corridor, worsening the already challenging operational conditions under which the Corporation continues to provide essential transport services to Nigerians.
The NRC considers that these persistent attacks not only endanger lives and damage critical railway infrastructure but also constitute acts of economic sabotage capable of disrupting national transportation and undermining the Federal Government’s huge investments in the railway sector.
Nevertheless, in spite of the development, train operations have continued with necessary safety precautions and strict operational vigilance by railway personnel, who have continued to demonstrate commitment and professionalism in ensuring that passengers reach their destinations safely.
The NRC specially acknowledged the efforts and support of security operatives working tirelessly with it to secure railway corridors and safeguard passengers and railway assets despite the persistent attacks.
The Corporation is currently working closely with security agencies, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen surveillance along the corridor, identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The NRC calls on residents and communities situated along railway corridors to support efforts aimed at protecting railway infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities and discouraging criminal attacks on trains and railway installations.
We express the opinion that continuous attacks on railway operations could negatively affect the corporation’s capacity for smooth service delivery, if urgent collective action is not taken to curb the menace. For this reason, we call on the security forces to lend a helping hand to the management of the corporation.
The NRC reaffirms its commitment to ensuring safe, secure and efficient train operations across the country, assuring passengers that every necessary measure is being taken to safeguard lives and railway assets.
