By Eddah Waithaka
Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir spearheaded the unveiling of the upgraded commuter rail service in line with the ambitious Nairobi Metropolitan Transport Master Plan. The initiative aims to revitalize the city’s rail infrastructure, address congestion and usher in a new era of safe, reliable and cost-effective transportation options for residents.
This is a major step forward by the Ministry of Roads and Transport, marked by the inauguration of the Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) stations and the debut of Kenya Railways’ (KR) high-end Premium Class services.
Speaking during the commissioning, CS Chirchir emphasized the importance of the Nairobi Commuter Rail development as a vital component of the city’s future transportation infrastructure.
“The rehabilitation of the NCR network is a key pillar in our efforts to decongest roads and ensure the people of Nairobi have access to world-class transport services,” Chirchir said.
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The NCR project includes the rehabilitation of 139 kilometers of railway track in four major corridors: Line 1: Nairobi Central Railway Station to Kikuyu (31 km) with intermediate stations at Kibera and Dagoretti, Line 2: Makadara to Ruiru (26km) with stops at Dandora, Mwiki, Githurai and Kahawa, Line 3: Nairobi Central Station to Konza (75km), improving access to Konza Technopolis City with seven intermediate stations, Line 4: Makadara to Embakasi Village (7.2 km), with stations at Donholm and Pipeline.
The upgrades are aimed at improving the comfort and safety of commuters, reducing travel times, and enabling faster and more efficient rail services.
With a commitment of Ksh 65 billion from the World Bank, the network is set to grow by 58 kilometers, significantly extending its reach.
This strategic expansion is expected to increase daily ridership from the current 20,000 to a projected 100,000 by fiscal year 2024/2025.
Recent upgrades to NCR stations Kenya Railways has upgraded critical stations such as Nairobi Central, Ruiru, Githurai and Mwiki, while building new stations in locations such as Kibera, Makongeni and Mutuini.
The construction of 32 additional stations is a key facet of the government’s strategy to significantly increase commuter capacity across the Nairobi metropolitan area.
Rolling Stock Enhancements Kenya Railways has also rehabilitated between 300 and 500 meter-gauge railway coaches at the Nairobi Workshop, and the introduction of Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) is already providing reliable, modern services. Additionally, the construction of an Ultra-Modern Carriage and Wagon (CXR) Workshop is underway.
Kenya Railways has recently unveiled an enhanced passenger experience with the inauguration of the exclusive Premium Class service on the renowned Madaraka Express.
Tailored to meet the needs of sophisticated travelers, this new offering signifies a significant upgrade in the overall service provided on the Madaraka Express route.
The latest addition to the Madaraka Express, the Premium Class service boasts opulent coaches designed to accommodate just 28 passengers per coach. Distinguished by generous legroom, individualized space, and seats that recline fully, passengers are guaranteed a lavish journey.
Included in the package are complimentary meals, Wi-Fi access, entertainment options, and expedited boarding procedures, all aimed at elevating the comfort and convenience of travelers on board.
The debut of these upscale amenities and upgraded stations heralds a transformative era in Nairobi’s transportation landscape, underscoring the city’s aspirations to become a central hub for streamlined and convenient urban rail transportation.
This initiative underscores a strategic move in line with the government’s overarching goal of providing world-class rail services that meet the growing needs of Nairobi’s diverse commuter population, ultimately improving the city’s connectivity and modernizing its public transport infrastructure.
