The new management team at the Monrovia Transit Authority (NTA), led by Managing Director Mr. Edmund Forh, has made significant progress in addressing the agency’s operational challenges. Following a prolonged absence of NTA buses on the roads, the team has successfully repaired 11 of the agency’s 26 buses, which are now ready to resume service across Montserrado and neighboring counties. In a recent exclusive interview, Mr. Forh candidly acknowledged the difficulties faced by the Liberian populace due to the absence of reliable public transportation, highlighting the increasing demand for services and the escalating issues related to traffic congestion and limited access to commercial transportation options.
One of the primary challenges contributing to the downtime of the NTA buses has been delays in the procurement process for necessary spare parts, which were sourced from India. Originally scheduled for completion in May, this process was hampered by lengthy procedures involving the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, delaying the repairs until August. Furthermore, Mr. Forh elaborated on how a portion of the allocated US$300,000 for repairs was diverted to purchase a pickup truck and a generator, the latter of which is essential for providing electricity to the NTA compound that has been without power due to a lack of connection with the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC).
The operational status of the NTA has significantly deteriorated over the years, exacerbated by previous mismanagement, which left only five of the 39 buses functional and many others in dire need of mechanical overhauls. This state of disarray underscores the urgent need for revitalization within the NTA. Mr. Forh pointed out that the organization’s lack of a proper administrative facility, following the destruction of its headquarters in a fire, has compounded these issues, forcing staff to work under less than ideal conditions, including in garages or outdoors. To address this challenge, a groundbreaking ceremony for a new NTA headquarters is scheduled for next month, to be led by President Joseph N. Boakai, marking a significant step towards reconstructing the institution.
In addition to restoring bus services, the NTA aims to reinstate its 104 routes that have been suspended due to deteriorating road conditions between Duala and Broad Street. The local transport situation has been further complicated by recent safety regulations imposed by the Liberian National Police on motorcycle operations since May 2024. While the intent behind these measures is to enhance passenger safety, the crackdown on motorbikes has drastically reduced the number available for public transport, putting additional pressure on alternative modes of transportation like taxis and commercial buses.
Despite these multifaceted challenges, Mr. Forh expressed a strong commitment to improving and restoring the public transportation system in Liberia. He acknowledges the hardships faced by citizens, particularly during peak hours, as they struggle to find available transportation amid rising traffic congestion. The NTA’s emphasis on bringing more buses back into service, alongside ongoing negotiations with companies for new acquisitions, reflects a strategic approach to address these pressing needs, emphasizing service reliability and efficiency to better serve the community.
In conclusion, the new management at the Monrovia Transit Authority, under Mr. Edmund Forh’s leadership, is taking significant steps toward revitalizing the public transport system in Liberia. With a focus on repairing existing buses, addressing procurement delays, and overcoming operational hurdles such as the lack of an administrative building, the NTA aims to restore public confidence in its services. The upcoming construction of a new headquarters and reinstatement of previously suspended routes further demonstrate the agency’s commitment to addressing transportation challenges, all while balancing the need for safety amid regulatory changes. With these initiatives, the NTA seeks to provide a modern, reliable, and efficient public transportation system that meets the demands of citizens across the region.
