The Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC) is currently finalizing the operationalization of the Ksh4.2B Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line.
During a briefing for the National Assembly Committee on Implementation that was led by Budalangi Member of Parliament (MP), Raphael Wanjala, during an inspection tour of SGR operations in Mombasa, KRC Managing Director (MD) Philip Mainga revealed that that the railway infrastructure project is ready for launching.
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Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line Project Factsheet
Cost: Ksh4.2 Billion (approximately $32 million)
Length: 26 kilometers
Components:
- Rehabilitation of the existing Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) line to Miritini.
- Construction of a new MGR passenger station at Mombasa Terminus.
- It also entails the construction of four mini-stations at Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi.
- A pedestrian bridge linking the SGR and MGR platforms.
- A locomotive turntable.
- Construction of a 480-meter railway bridge across the Makupa Causeway.
- Rehabilitation of the historic Mombasa Central Railway Station.
Operator: Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC)
Commencement Date
The railway infrastructure project was initiated in September of the year 2022. However, the project was subjected to delays as a result of land acquisition challenges. In what is termed as a boost for the project, The Ministry of Transport subsequently earmarked a total of Ksh1.1 billion to the National Land Commission. This funds were to be utilized in the facilitation of land acquisition for the project. Therefore, this paved way for the rehabilitation of the Mombasa Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) line to Miritini.
Once operations kick off, passengers who will be using the Madaraka Express and the seven SGR stations arriving at or departing from Mombasa will be able to link to the CBD through the MGR line.
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Scope of the Mombasa SGR Terminus and 26-Kilometer CBD Rail Link Line Project
Additionally, the project entails the rehabilitation of the historic Mombasa Central Railway Station and the construction of four mini-stations that will be located in Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi
Furthermore, the project involves the construction of a pedestrian bridge that connects the SGR and MGR platforms, a locomotive turntable and also a railway bridge that will boast a total length of 480 meters across the Makupa Causeway.
The commuter train will offer Mombasa residents an alternative mode of transport. This will therefore reduce the pressure that usually mounts on road transport.
Significance of the Project
This commuter rail is part of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRT) that the Ministry of Roads and Transport is implementing. Also, it entaila the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) for travelers that will enable them to move safely and efficiently.
The Managing Director affirmed that the Corporation is competitive and has been rebranded. Furthermore, he encouraged Kenyans to use rail transport so that they can experience the transformation.
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