The new management team at the Monrovia Transit Authority says it has repaired 11 out of the agency’s 26 buses, ready to ply the street again.
By: Naneka A. Hoffman
Monrovia, Liberia, November 25, 2024 – The Managing Director of the National Transit Authority (NTA) Mr. Edmund Forh reveals here that eleven out of the agency’s 26 buses that had been down, are ready to resume public transportation across Montserrado and three other counties.
In an exclusive interview over the weekend, Mr. Forh acknowledged the transportation challenges facing Liberians due to the absence of NTA buses in the streets for a good while.
He explains that procurement process for spare parts from India was delayed from May to August this year due to lengthy procedures involving the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.
He further explains that a portion of US$300,000 allocated for repairs was used to purchase a pickup truck and a generator.
According to him, the generator is needed to provide electricity at the NTA compound, which has been without power due to lack of connection to the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC).
Mr. Forh highlights ongoing negotiations with various companies to procure new buses for the NTA.
He laments hardship many Liberians endure during rush hours, particularly as people rush to catch commercial buses and taxis, exacerbating traffic congestion and the scarcity of available vehicles.
The NTA boss says the shortage of public transport has worsened over the years, adding that due in part to mismanagement under the previous administration.
He explains that the NTA in disarray, with only five out of 39 buses operational, and many more requiring major mechanical overhauls before they can be put back in the street.
He notes that the NTA did not have an administrative building, as the previous headquarters had been destroyed in a fire, leaving employees to work in a garage or under trees.
Mr. Forh reveals that groundbreaking ceremony for a new NTA headquarters is scheduled for next month when President Joseph N. Boakai will lead the ceremony, marking a key step in rebuilding the institution.
The NTA is also working to reinstate it 104 routes, which had been suspended due to bad road conditions between Duala and Broad Street.
He says transportation issues have been compounded since the Liberian National Police enforced new safety measures on motorcycles in May 2024.
Meanwhile, Mr. Forh notes that the intent of these measures is to improve safety, but the crackdown has significantly reduced number of motorbikes available for public transport, further straining other forms of transportation like taxis and commercial buses.
He assures that despite challenges, the NTA management team remains committed to restoring and improving public transportation system in Liberia for the benefit of the public. Editing by Jonathan Browne
