The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) says deployment of technology in the pilot scheme operation of UberBOAT on the state waterways is commendable.
Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, General Manager of LASWA, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos that technology made the operations well organised and effective.
Emmanuel said that the Texas-based company was operating with two boats
strictly between Ikorodu and Falomo on waterways from 7 a.m. to 8 00a.m.
According to him, the 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. operation was rush
hour when people would be going or returning from work.
He said, “They (UberBOAT) is partnering with an existing operator that has
the infrastructure. The UberBOAT just deployed its technologies for
operations.”
The LASWA boss said that the Texas Connection pilot scheme was for two
weeks before the operator would look into their long term plans.
“’This exposes the partners to best practice operations on the waterways. The
pilot event will inform UberBOAT on how best to carry out its long term plan.
“The operation is very good because people can sit in the comfort of their
houses, book online and be sure that when you get to the jetty, you will already
have a seat in the boat.
“’This is opposed to going to the jetty, queuing and entering any available
boat,” he said.
Emmanuel said that the two boats handed over to UberBOAT by an existing
operator had standard features.
He said that UberBOAT also deployed technology to collect, keep data and
personal details of passengers as against a manifest.
“The UberApp is deployed to get profile of passengers. This makes the system
more efficient and effective. With this, they can gather data and make better
informed decisions.
“We are satisfied with their operation as they have their safety officers on
ground at the jetties to ensure that passengers are always wearing life jackets
on board. It is going on well,” Emmanuel said.
NAN reports that on UberBOAT routes, each trip costs N500 and bookings
can only be made and completed online with Uber App where seats will be
allocated.
UberBOAT, which started on Monday, will be available only on weekdays for
two weeks. (NAN)
