Tanzania has officially launched operations on the 440-kilometer high-speed rail link between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma. This significant infrastructure development is crucial in the country’s broader railway modernization plan. The 440-kilometer electric railway line is part of a larger initiative to construct over 2,500 kilometers of new tracks, replacing the outdated narrow-gauge network inherited from the colonial era. A previous 200-kilometer section to Morogoro was launched in June. The new train service, equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, will cut travel time between the two cities to approximately three and a half hours. This is a significant reduction from the previous coach journey. Furthermore, daily services are set to commence. This ambitious infrastructure project is expected to boost economic growth, improve connectivity, and enhance Tanzania’s position as a regional transport hub.
The Contractors Involved in the Project
The completion and commencement of Tanzania’s high-speed rail link between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma required many hands on board. The project has been undertaken in partnership with Turkish construction firms. Furthermore, South Korean train manufacturer Hyundai Rotem has also proven valuable. The project is a cornerstone of President Suluhu’s development agenda. Professor Abel Kinyondo of the University of Dar es Salaam hailed the railway as an environmentally friendly mode of transport, contributing to the country’s sustainability goals.
The trains boast eight carriages each and have been deployed on the new standard gauge railway route connecting the commercial hub Dar es Salaam and the capital, Dodoma. The South Korean company has played a crucial role in ensuring Tanzania has taken a significant leap forward in its railway modernization efforts. One of its contributions is the arrival of two new electric multiple-unit (EMU) trains from South Korea earlier this month.
Also read:
Tanzania SGR Operations Approach as the Country Launches East Africa’s First Electric Train
The Unique Features of the Tanzania High-Speed Rail Link Between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma
One of the unique features of the trains operating on Tanzania’s high-speed rail link between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma is they are electric. This is a significant feat as Tanzania becomes the first East African Nation to operationalize an electric train system. Tanzania has purchased 10 locomotives and coaches from the Hyundai Rotem Company of South Korea. Each set includes eight wagons, with a locomotive at the front and back.
It also has a capacity of carrying 589 passengers and a traveling speed of 160 kilometers per hour. Tanzania now has three EMUs, with the latest two arriving. The first set arrived in April this year and has been used for test runs. The Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) said it would increase the number of trains based on passenger numbers. “Passengers are advised to book tickets on the firm’s website or at the windows inside train stations two hours before the train departs to avoid congestion,” said TRC.
The State of Affairs Regarding the Project
The official operationalization of Tanzania’s high-speed rail link has been dramatically anticipated since its launch earlier this month. Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) noted that it had received all necessary support and materials to ensure the operation succeeded. “TRC has received a total of 65 passenger wagons, 17 electric locomotives, and three sets of EMU trains; the receipt of the equipment for the SGR operations is ongoing in different phases,” TRC said. “The newly arrived equipment will continue to undergo testing for assurance before commencing service provision.” Furthermore, the project shows Tanzania’s commitment to bolster its transport and infrastructural system.
Also read:
Tanzania SGR Construction Project Seeks More Funding in Europe as Turkish Firm Derailed
