The Ministry of Transport says teams of inspectors and rail technicians have been dispatched to conduct a comprehensive review of all active rail infrastructures across Liberia.
By: Naneka A. Hoffman
The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has officially launched a National Rail Inspection exercise, aimed at assessing and improving the country’s rail infrastructure.
Speaking at a press conference over the weekend, Deputy Minister for Land and Rail, Mr. Rudolph G. Natt Jr., disclosed that the inspection will cover rail corridors in Nimba, Bong, Grand Bassa, and Montserrado Counties.
According to him, two teams of inspectors and rail technicians have been dispatched to conduct a comprehensive review of all active rail infrastructures across Liberia.
The exercise is being supervised by the Assistant Minister for Land and Rail Transport, Mr. Zunu K. Duyann.
“Recognizing that a well-maintained and safe rail infrastructure is vital to Liberia’s economic growth and social development, this initiative undertaken in collaboration with ArcelorMittal Liberia and China Union is intended to enhance rail safety compliance and operational efficiency nationwide,” Mr. Natt said.
He stressed that the exercise also underscores the Government of Liberia’s commitment to ensuring a secure and reliable transportation network that supports both citizens and foreign residents, as well as key economic activities.
Mr. Natt further revealed that a recent investigative assessment by the Rail Division, following an incident at 45.7 kilometers along the Nimba-Bassa rail corridor, highlighted the urgent need for stronger cooperation between government agencies, rail operators, and local communities to safeguard the infrastructure.
“In this regard, the Ministry of Transport will soon launch a community engagement campaign to raise awareness among residents living along the rail lines. The campaign will focus on rail safety, the dangers of trespassing, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities or potential damage to infrastructure,” he explained.
The engagements will include town hall meetings and workshops, while the Ministry also plans to establish Community Liaison Committees to serve as direct communication channels between residents and rail authorities. These committees, he noted, will play a key role in fostering shared responsibility for rail safety and security.
“The goal is to build a culture of safety where communities become active participants in safeguarding the rail,” Mr. Natt emphasized.
He assured the public that under the leadership of Minister Sirleaf R. Tyler, the Ministry of Transport remains firmly committed to ensuring safety and compliance across all modes of transportation, including land (rail), air, and sea. Editing by Jonathan Browne
