Mombasa: The Kenya Railway Corporation (KRC) is intensifying efforts to operationalise a link train between the Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus and the Mombasa Central Railway Station.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Sh4.2 billion project, which started in September 2022, faced delays due to land acquisition challenges, halting progress at 65 percent. However, the Ministry of Transport has allocated Sh1.1 billion to the National Land Commission to begin compensation for the 1.4 kilometers of land required for the rehabilitation of the Mombasa Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) to Miritini.
Upon completion, passengers using the Madaraka Express passenger service train and the seven stations along the SGR will have access to the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) line to the Mombasa CBD station. The project also includes the rehabilitation of the Mombasa Central Railway Station and the construction of four mini-stations in Changamwe East, Changamwe West, Miritini, and Shimanzi.
Additionally, the project involves building a pedestrian bridge connecting the SGR and MGR platforms, a locomotive turntable, and a 480-meter railway bridge across the Makupa Causeway. The commuter train is expected to offer Mombasa residents an alternative mode of transport, alleviating pressure on road transport.
This initiative is a part of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRT) that the Ministry of Roads and Transport is implementing, which also includes the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) for safe and efficient travel.
KRC Managing Director, Mr. Philip Mainga, stated that the project is at an advanced construction stage, and soon train users will enjoy a seamless connection between the SGR terminus in Miritini and Mombasa CBD. “We are looking to operationalise the Link train for Mombasa County soon. Once operational, residents, tourists, and train enthusiasts to Mombasa will use the Link train. This train will ease access to not only Mombasa Terminus and Mombasa CBD but also the areas in between these destinations,” he said.
Jomvu Legislator Badi Twalib highlighted that the commuter train linking Mombasa West to the CBD will facilitate thriving businesses and safe commuting for learners. He expressed gratitude to the government for rerouting the railway line, thereby sparing Maganda Primary School from demolition.