Technology Powering Nairobi Commuter Trains [VIDEO]

Inside one of the commuter trains on October 10, 2020.
Inside one of the commuter trains on November 10, 2020.
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The recently unveiled Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) trains serving Nairobi commuters have more advanced specs compared to the older trains including electrical breaking switch and circuit breakers.

The Nairobi Commuter Service is currently served by five locomotives with six others expected to join the fleet.

Kenya Railways officials stated that the trains would increase the capacity to 132,000 commuters daily in a bid to ease congestion in the city.

The DMUs have increased speed of trains 50kph from 20kph.

Train drivers operating the new Trains in Nairobi
Train drivers operating the new Trains in Nairobi
YouTube

The braking system also includes hydro-dynamic braking which acts fast and gives a smooth braking experience.

The driver's compartments also has a monitor screen which allows the trained operators to control the train and commute on the track.

The screen also enables the operators to communicate with the controllers at the stations as well as an exclusive radio connection.

The DMUs have two driver's compartments at both ends each with an engine to facilitate the movement of the train in either direction.

Controls in the driver's compartment in the new Nairobi commuter trains
Controls in the driver's compartment in the new Nairobi commuter trains
YouTube

Trains have different types of shock absorbers with the DMU's fitted with secondary shock absorbers which are more efficient absorbing pressure when the trains are in motion.

"When the train makes a turn or tilts, the shocks absorb the pressure and the passengers do not feel it, it is very comfortable," one of the train drivers, Jacob Nguli stated.

The trains are expected to serve high-density areas including Ruiru, Mwiki, Embakasi Village, Athi River, Kikuyu, Kahawa, Githurai, Dandora, Pipeline, and Donholm estates.

Watch the video of the new commuter trains in Nairobi:

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