TPA backs expansion of port’s railway infrastructure to bolster cargo transportation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has pledged to cooperate with institutions operating railway infrastructure within ports to ensure their investments facilitate cargo transportation and improve port service efficiency.

Dar es Salaam Port Director Abed Galus said TPA supports plans to upgrade and expand railway infrastructure at the port, noting that the improvements would increase the speed and efficiency of cargo transportation.

He said the availability of railway infrastructure within the port would reduce the congestion of cargo trucks on roads and strengthen the port’s capacity to handle larger volumes of cargo within shorter periods.

Mr Galus made the remarks during a visit by the Board of Directors of the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) to railway infrastructure facilities at Dar es Salaam Port. The visit aimed to inspect the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) facilities and assess how they support cargo evacuation from the port.

“Improvements to railway infrastructure will not only serve container transportation but will also cover general cargo, expanding the range of freight transportation services offered through rail,” Mr Galus told the board.

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He added that, to maximise the benefits of the railway improvements, TPA was also implementing strategies to increase its capacity to handle vessels and cargo. These include deepening berths and increasing their number to meet growing demand for port services.

The ongoing improvements form part of a broader strategy to enhance port efficiency, reduce cargo handling time and strengthen the country’s freight transportation system.

During the visit, the board inspected railway infrastructure at the Kurasini Logistics Centre in the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) area, the Tanzania East Africa Gateway Terminal Limited (TEAGTL) container terminal, the DP World port terminal and Malindi Wharf.

The inspection tour is scheduled to continue the following day at Kwala Dry Port and other institutions involved in cargo evacuation operations at the port.