Monrovia-The Managing Director of the National Transit Authority (NTA), Edmund F. Forh, recently announced plans to import 60 new vehicles, including 57 buses and three cargo trucks, aimed at improving the transportation services for the people of Liberia.
Monrovia– The Managing Director of the National Transit Authority (NTA), Edmund F. Forh, recently announced plans to import 60 new vehicles, including 57 buses and three cargo trucks, aimed at improving the transportation services for the people of Liberia.
The total value of this procurement is approximately USD $3.9 million. In an exclusive interview, Mr. Forhdetailed the specifications of the vehicles which he said comprise 35-seated buses and 20-seated buses along with three cargo trucks.
He stated that all necessary procedures have been completed through the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC), and the vehicles are expected to arrive in Liberia within the next three months, procured through the Liberia-based company AB International.
Mr. Forh emphasized that the introduction of these buses will significantly address the transportation challenges faced by Liberians, who frequently stand in long queues under harsh weather conditions while waiting for transportation.
He noted, “We have also developed a plan to cater specifically to the transportation needs of the elderly and students,” indicating that these demographics will benefit greatly once the vehicles are operational.
Mr. Forh outlined a five-year strategic plan encompassing standard operating procedure, human resource management, and financial management practices. These reforms aim to enhance the efficiency and reliability of transit services across the country.
Forh also announced that three new Tata buses recently acquired will soon commence operations in Monrovia and its surroundings. The routes for these buses include, Duala to Po River ELWA Junction to Boy Town (Margibi County) Red Light to Broad Street.
He highlighted that the fare for passengers traveling from ELWA Junction to Boy Town and from Duala to Po River will be set at L$100.
Mr. Forh also expressed his intention to honor dedicated staff members for their unwavering support over the past year. He took the helm of the NTA in March of last year, following a period of mismanagement attributed to the previous administration during the CDC regime.
It is important to recall that the NTA faced significant setbacks, notably the catastrophic fire in 2021 that destroyed its administrative offices in Gardnerville and resulted in the loss of over 809,000 Liberian dollars, nine million Leones, and $600 in cash.
Mr. Forh reassured the public that his team is diligently working to restore the NTA’s operational capacity and reputation.
As the NTA prepares for the arrival of these new vehicles, the hope is that improved public transport will enhance the daily lives of Liberians and contribute to the overall development of the nation’s infrastructure.
