PM Majaliwa wants SGR services enhanced

DODOMA: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has instructed the Ministry of Transport to maintain close supervision of the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) to ensure the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train services continue to improve.

Majaliwa said the close China firms eye ICT investment oversight of the corporation will also strengthen infrastructure management for the long-term benefits of the project.

Adjourning the 16th meeting of the12th Parliament in Dodoma yesterday, he said the launch of the electric train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, has contributed significantly to strengthening of the transport sector in the country.

“On August 1, this year President Samia Suluhu Hassan inaugurated the modern SGR electric train services from Dar es Salaam through Morogoro to Dodoma City.

The train continues to serve the public and has contributed to strengthening the transport sector,” he said.

Majaliwa said in the 2024/2025 financial year, the government will continue with its role of developing the transport sector, including overseeing and advancing the railway sector including the construction of the remaining SGR lots.

The new SGR electric train services signify a major leap forward in the country’s infrastructure, offering increased efficiency and connectivity.

This modern rail link is set to revolutionise travel within Tanzania by significantly cutting journey hours and boosting economic activities across various regions.

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The SGR electric train service from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma has reduced travel time to just three hours and 25 minutes.

Speaking at the inaugural  event of the SGR electric train services, President Samia directed TRC to integrate it with other sectors to facilitate smooth transportation of goods and services.

She said the Ministry of Transport should ensure Tanzanians benefit fully from the new train services.

“This is not just a railway; it is a lifeline that will bring our people closer, enhance trade and spur economic growth,” President Samia said.

President Samia urged the TRC board and management to ensure the timely completion of the ongoing railway construction sections, adhering to agreed standards and quality.

She directed the ministry to complete the construction and repair of cargo ships on various lakes before the project ends, facilitating commercial links with sea and lake ports, particularly Victoria and Tanganyika.

The integration of the railway with air transport is crucial.

The railway should connect to Terminal III of Julius Nyerere International Airport, allowing goods to move directly onto the railway for easy onward transportation.

“The use of modern ICT systems, including railway security systems, ticketing and passenger tracking, should be prioritised to avoid reverting to manual systems,” she insisted.

The government expects the TRC to commence is suing dividends without re questing subsidies.

Separate accounts and accountability systems for SGR and Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) should be maintained to ensure transparency, President Samia was quoted as directing.

“The TRC must establish a new work culture, implement robust maintenance and safety systems and provide ongoing training for staff in infrastructure management, operations and marketing,” she urged.

President Samia emphasised that the success of the railway depends on the combined efforts of the central government, regions, districts and private sector stakeholders.

“We must unite to ensure the railway benefits everyone.