The Nakuru- Kisumu train will roar back to life after years of dilapidation following refurbishment efforts by Kenya Railways.
The Ksh3.7 billion project which is being undertaken by the transport agency is expected to open up the western region.
Already, a majority of the track has been redone with the stations in Nakuru and Kisumu at different levels of completion.
The revival of the 217-kilometer Nakuru-Kisumu line is being undertaken in conjunction with the KDF Engineers Brigade
The rehabilitation of the Nakuru Railway Station is in progress as the Nakuru railway yard having increased capacity with 21 lines which have a capacity to hold 600 wagons.
The Nakuru-Kisumu Railway line has the largest number of viaducts in the entire MGR network with a total of 27 viaducts.
"This is because it passes through very difficult terrain in the Rift Valley," the Kenya Railways explained.
The difficult terrain provides a very scenic view for passengers who will get to experience the various landscapes of the Rift Valley.
The project aims at enhancing the transportation of goods and passengers to Kisumu and the neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania through Lake Victoria.
It also links Kisumu Port to Naivasha ICD and Mombasa port, opening up the region to many possibilities.
Industries in the towns of Nakuru, Njoro, Molo, Londiani and others along the line will be able to transport cargo with ease.
President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga are expected to take their maiden train trip to Kisumu from Naivasha later in May 2021 for the official launch of the revamped line.
Kenya Railways is refurbishing 31 locomotives to increase capacity in preparation for operations along the rail section
"Among the 31 locomotives, nine are being rehabilitated and 22 others are undergoing an overhaul under the partnership between Kenya Railways and Kenya Defense Forces (KDF)," read a statement from KRC.
