Kenya is nearing the offset of another multi-million project aimed at powering the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) so as to upgrade to use of electric trains.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has already received an outline of the project that would see a power line put up as part of the intended upgrade of the SGR.
Kenya Electricity Transmission Company is awaiting environmental approvals from NEMA so as to commence construction of power infrastructure.
Once completed, the power line shall facilitate the shift from diesel to electricity operated trains, a change that would mean less travel and transportation time.
KETRACO submitted the environmental assessment report for the planned construction of 12 transmission lines and 14 substations.
The power supply is intended to power electric trains and also boost operation and livelihoods of the people living along the rail.
"The proponent, Ketraco, is proposing to construct 12 transmission lines and 14 substations for supply of high voltage power to the Nairobi-Mombasa SGR line and the economic belt along the railway line,” stated NEMA in its call for views from members of the public.
The proposed project will traverse five counties; Kilifi, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Makueni and Machakos County. It is still unclear whether the next face of the SGR shall be powered from Nairobi to Kisumu given the line is still under construction.
