SGR phase two to Naivasha now on course

Kenya Railways Managing Director, Atanas Maina, has authenticated the headway of Standard Gauge Railway Phase 2A, which will see the SGR expanded from Nairobi to Naivasha through the Nairobi National Park.

The decision to proceed with SGR in the Nairobi National Park is a blow to environmentalists who had fervently opposed the idea of unsettling wildlife. Maina said that the new plan is strategic not to interfere with wildlife.

Speaking on Thursday, July 27, 2017 during a media briefing at the Kenya Railways Headquarters, he confirmed that phase 2A construction is underway and that adequate planning has been invested on the project.

SGR phase 2 was funded by the Export-Import Bank of China, earmarking a loan of Ksh 357 billion. The finance is meant to cater for the construction of the Railway up to Kisumu and rule out land hitches by reimbursing displaced persons.

Contrary to veiled remarks made by opposition over the positioning of a dry port in Naivasha, the managing director asserted that the Special Economic Zone will be at the pivot of Mahi Mahiu and Suswa and the railway line will only cross Naivasha Sub-County.

So far, Madaraka Express has received an inviting reception from Kenyans with 2,700 people using its services daily.

Mr. Maina has, however, fronted challenges faced by Madaraka Express, like issuing imprecise tickets, which will now be procured on an online interface to avoid commotion at the station, also, they pledged to sort appalling depot services and bump off communication barriers with clients.

Over 400 locals stand as job beneficiaries of Madaraka Express, which has been regulated to operate a twin service of county services in the morning and express service in the evening.