Tanzania Railways Corporation Receives New Rolling Stock
The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has marked a significant milestone with the arrival of 3 new electric train engines and 27 passenger carriages for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). This notable event took place at the Port of Dar es Salaam on 30 December 2023, signalling a step forward in the country’s rail transport modernization efforts.
Manufactured by Hyundai Rotem, the electric train engines represent the latest in railway technology. Complementing these engines are 27 passenger carriages, expertly crafted by Sung Shin Rolling Stock Technology (SSRST) from South Korea. This acquisition is part of TRC’s broader strategy to enhance and modernize rail transport within the country.
Engineer Machibya M. Shiwa, the Acting Director of TRC, highlighted the significance of this development. He pointed out that the equipment forms part of ongoing procurements from South Korea and other countries, aimed at bolstering the operational capabilities of the SGR.
To date, TRC has received a total of four engines out of the planned seventeen from Hyundai Rotem. In terms of passenger carriages, the corporation has so far received 56 out of the 59 planned from SSRST. The recently arrived batch includes thirteen business class and fourteen economy class carriages, indicating a commitment to providing a range of travel options for passengers.
An intriguing aspect of this development is the inclusion of a special carriage designed for the head of state, known as the presidential coach. This bespoke carriage is part of the broader procurement of the 59 carriages and underscores the importance placed on state protocol and dignitary transport within the framework of the SGR project.
Looking ahead to 2024, TRC is set to receive 10 modern Electrical Multiple Units (EMU) trains. The delivery schedule is phased throughout the year, with the first set expected in March and the final set in October. Each train set is designed to accommodate up to 640 passengers, reflecting a significant boost in passenger capacity and efficiency.
The newly received engines are capable of reaching speeds up to 160 kilometres per hour. One of these engines has already undergone a series of comprehensive tests and trials, ensuring their readiness for operational deployment. These trials are critical in ensuring the safety and reliability of the equipment before they are commissioned for passenger service.
In support of this significant project, Mr. Mrisho Selemani Mrisho, the Director of the Port of Dar es Salaam, emphasized the port’s role in facilitating the arrival and handling of these vital components. He assured that the port is fully equipped and committed to ensuring the safe and efficient unloading of the train components, including engines, carriages, and rails.
In conclusion, the TRC continues to work diligently, receiving and testing the necessary equipment in phases for the successful operation of the SGR. This project is set to transform the rail transport landscape in Tanzania, promising enhanced efficiency, capacity, and modernity in rail travel.
