The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has unveiled plans to acquire more coaches as it seeks to boost transport services.
In a statement that is part of its 2023-2027 strategic plan, the company said it would acquire 480 wagons to increase its capacity to transport passengers and cargo. The new coaches will serve customers plying the Nairobi – Suswa route.
KRC will also construct new lines for both the meter-gauge railway (MGR) and the standard-gauge railway (SGR) and introduce premium services for top-tier clients.
As part of the plan, the corporation will reconstruct the Mariakani and Athi River Freight Yards, and rehabilitate lines at Port Reitz SGR marshalling yard, and the Longonot–Malaba MGR line.
The corporation will also construct the Riruta – Ngong MGR commuter line, and establish a new link line from Miritini SGR Terminus to Mombasa CBD.
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“These initiatives signify Kenya Railways’ commitment to providing efficient and reliable transportation services, driving progress and connectivity across the nation,”KRC stated.
Early this year, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen flagged off 50 new wagons for SGR Freight Services, in a strategic move aimed at enhancing the competence and capacity of the country’s transport infrastructure.
“The acquisition of 50 new wagons is part of our strategic response to market dynamics, meeting the ever-changing customer demands and gaining a competitive edge,” Murkomen said.
The government’s investments and reforms have resulted in significant gains in the Railway Transport Sector, including both Standard Gauge Railway and Meter Gauge Railway.
The volume of cargo transported via MGR increased by 21% from 797,000 tons in 2022 to 1,955,000 tons in 2023, while SGR volume increased by 7% from 6,90,000 tons to 6,533,028 tons.
