MONROVIA – The Managing Director of the National Transit Authority (NTA), Mr. Edmund F. Forh, has disclosed plans to import 57 buses and three cargo trucks to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by Liberians.
In an exclusive interview with The Liberian Investigator on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the NTA headquarters, Mr. Forh revealed that the fleet, valued at USD $3.9 million, consists of 35-seater and 20-seater buses, along with the three cargo trucks, bringing the total number of vehicles expected to 60.
“We have completed all necessary paperwork through the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC), and these vehicles will arrive in the next three months through the Liberian-owned company, AB International,” Mr. Forh said.
According to him, the new additions will significantly address the daily transportation struggles of Liberians, many of whom are often left stranded in the sun and rain for extended periods while waiting for public transport.
“We have also devised a plan to cater to the transportation needs of elderly citizens and students once these vehicles arrive,” he added.
The NTA boss further disclosed that his administration has developed a five-year strategic plan to strengthen the entity. This plan includes a standard operating procedure manual, as well as human resource and financial management guidelines.
Additionally, Mr. Forh announced that three recently acquired Tata buses will soon begin operations within Monrovia and its surrounding areas. He outlined the designated routes as follows: Duala to Po River, ELWA Junction to Boy Town in Margibi County, and Red Light to Broad Street. These new routes aim to supplement the existing fleet and enhance commuting efficiency.
Mr. Forh assured that the Tata buses have already been insured through the National Insurance Company of Liberia. He stated that passengers traveling from ELWA Junction to Boy Town and from Duala to Po River will be charged a fare of L$100.
Meanwhile, the NTA chief disclosed plans to honor his dedicated staff on Friday, February 28, 2025, in recognition of their unwavering support and commitment to the institution over the past year.
Reflecting on his tenure, he noted that he took over the NTA in March last year, describing it as an institution in decline due to mismanagement under the previous administration.
It can be recalled that in 2021, a devastating fire destroyed the NTA’s administrative offices in Gardnerville, along with over L$809,000, nine million Sierra Leonean Leones, and USD $600 in cash. The disaster severely impacted the agency’s operations. However, Mr. Forh reassured the public that his team is working tirelessly to restore the NTA’s image and improve its services.
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