Samia to launch historic Dar-Dom electric train services

DAR ES SALAAM: THE long-awaited Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma are set to be officially inaugurated on Thursday, marking a transformative moment for Tanzania’s transportation sector.

New SGR electric train services represent a significant advancement in the country’s infrastructure, promising enhanced efficiency and connectivity.

The introduction of this modern rail link is poised to revolutionise travel within Tanzania by reducing journey times and bolstering economic activities across regions.

SGR electric train services from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma are expected to substantially reduce travel time, with the express train completing the journey in approximately three hours and 25 minutes.

This significant improvement over previous travel times is likely to boost economic activities by facilitating faster movement of goods and people, thus enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration.

Official inauguration by President Samia Suluhu Hassan aligns with the commencement of the Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibitions, which start on July 31 and run until August 9.

This is an annual event held to commemorate the founding of Farmers’ Day, celebrating achievements in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors.

This timing underscores the role of the SGR in supporting major national events and promoting regional participation.

Former President Jakaya Kikwete has praised the initiative, commending President Samia for her commitment to completing the SGR project.

Dr Kikwete, who on Wednesday travelled on the new electric train from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro, highlighted the comfort and efficiency of the service, noting that it significantly shortens travel time compared to road travel.

“I am very pleased to have travelled on this new train. It’s very comfortable. I deliberately chose to travel by train to see the progress we have made,” he said.

The efficient SGR service is anticipated to stimulate regional development by improving connectivity between economic hubs.

Enhanced transport infrastructure is expected to attract investment, facilitate trade, and provide a more reliable means of travel for both passengers and freight. Additionally, the improved rail connectivity could potentially lead to increased tourism and support local economies along the rail corridor.

Dr Kikwete also explained the broader economic benefits of the SGR, noting its high capacity for transporting goods and its potential to enhance economic activities further, especially when the railway extends to Mwanza.

“The SGR and electric train services offer great benefits due to the shorter travel time, which facilitates various social and economic activities,” said Dr Kikwete.

The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has reported smooth operations of the SGR service between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro since its commencement in June 2024.

The absence of operational challenges is a positive indicator of the service’s reliability.

ALSO READ: Dar-Dodoma SGR train begins next week

TRC Director General Masanja Kadogosa underscored the corporation’s commitment to maintaining high operational standards.

“We are proud of the smooth operations so far, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the SGR service continues to meet the highest standards of efficiency and safety. Our focus remains on delivering a reliable service for all passengers,” he said

Moreover, the TRC’s stringent conditions for passengers, including restrictions on items like plastic bags and large unwrapped items, reflect a commitment to maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

The safety measures advised by the SGR contractor, Yapi Merkezi, such as using designated crossings and avoiding the electrified rail areas, are crucial for ensuring public safety.

These precautions are necessary to prevent accidents and ensure the longevity of the railway infrastructure.

Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Ms Rose Senyamule called on citizens to welcome President Samia at the Mkonze train station, highlighting the community’s role in the event.

Such public engagement not only fosters a sense of ownership but also demonstrates the significance of the SGR project to the local population.

The official launch of Tanzania’s electric train services represents a major milestone in the country’s transportation infrastructure.

This development is set to enhance connectivity, drive regional growth, and set a precedent for future infrastructure projects in Tanzania, reinforcing the importance of modern transportation solutions in driving national progress.