The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority has reiterated that the Bus Rapid Transit lane is strictly reserved for designated buses and other authorised vehicles, warning that its use by unauthorised persons, including military personnel and local government buses, remains illegal.

This was disclosed in a Wednesday statement issued by the agency’s Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, amid concerns over increasing abuse of the BRT corridor across the state.

LAMATA stated that only BRT buses and vehicles operating under franchises duly regulated by the authority are permitted to use the lane.

“The only exceptions to this rule are emergency response vehicles such as fire trucks and ambulances, and only when responding to emergencies,” the statement read.

The agency, however, raised alarm over what it described as a growing and flagrant violation of the regulation by unauthorised users.

“However, it has come to our attention that there has been a growing and flagrant abuse of the BRT lane by unauthorized users, including some military personnel, para-military agencies, local government and Local Council Development Area buses, as well as private vehicles. This trend is deeply concerning and undermines the efficiency, safety, and purpose of the BRT system,” it added.

According to LAMATA, the BRT lane was introduced to provide fast, reliable, and safe mass transit for commuters, warning that illegal usage disrupts operations and endangers road users.

“Unauthorized use not only disrupts scheduled operations but also endangers passengers and other road users, contributes to traffic congestion, and erodes the gains made in improving urban mobility across Lagos State,” the statement noted.

The authority stressed that enforcement of the regulation would be intensified, adding that offenders would be sanctioned irrespective of their status.

“LAMATA wishes to state unequivocally that the regulations guiding the use of the BRT lane remain in full force and will be strictly enforced. All offenders, regardless of status or affiliation, will be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the relevant traffic laws of Lagos State,” it said.

It added that penalties may include fines, impoundment of vehicles, and other legal sanctions.

The agency urged all road users, including security agencies and government bodies, to comply with the rules guiding the use of the BRT corridor.

“We therefore call on all road users, including security agencies and government bodies, to respect the integrity of the BRT system and comply fully with established regulations,” the statement added.

LAMATA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order, safety, and efficiency across the state’s transport system (The PUNCH)

Update news