The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) announced that it is in the process of effecting seven changes to improve passenger and cargo services.
In a statement that is part of its 2023-2027 strategic plan, the company announced that it was in the process of acquiring more coaches as well as adding premium services for top-tier clients.
The new coaches will first be acquired to serve the Nairobi-Suswa route.
KRC further indicated that several changes are in the works to improve passenger experience which includes the construction of the Riruta-Ngong MGR commuter line as well as the establishment of a new link line from Miritini SGR Terminus to Mombasa CBD.
The company further indicated that several other works were in place to ensure that cargo transportation was seamless.
For instance, the corporation was in the process of reconstructing Mariakani and Athi River Freight Yards as well as the rehabilitation of lines at the Port Reitz SGR marshaling yard.
At the beginning of the year, the company also began acquiring 480 new wagons to boost transportation and rehabilitate the Longonot–Malaba MGR line.
"These initiatives signify Kenya Railways' commitment to providing efficient and reliable transportation services, driving progress and connectivity across the nation,"a statement from Kenya Railways stated in part.
The premium service is expected to offer superior services above the economy and business services that are currently operating along the Standard Gauge Railway.
In March this year, Kenya Railways Managing Director Phillip Mainga noted that 20 new coaches would be added to the trains to meet increased demands.
"We will soon receive 20 coaches comprising of 4 business class, 3 first class, 12 economy coaches and 1 power car designed for operations on the SGR line.
"These additional coaches will support the high demand for Madaraka Express Passenger Services," Mainga stated at the time.
Earlier, Kenyans.co.ke reported that the country was expected to receive 300 wagons from China in February 2024 meant for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). The figure was later increased to 480.
“For Kenya to remain competitive, we must continue to improve our transport infrastructure,” Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen stated while receiving the first 50 batches.
