SGR freight services ready for takeoff
DODOMA: THE Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) is set to begin commercial operations of its Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) freight services after successful testing.
The two-kilometrelong freight train operating between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma is anticipated to significantly enhance logistics efficiency and unlock new business opportunities across the nation.
“We have completed the necessary testing and obtained certification from the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA), so we are ready to commence freight operations,” Engineer Enock Mgonja, Manager of Passenger and Freight Wagon Maintenance at TRC, said.
He added that the wagons underwent testing under LATRA’s supervision, including static and dynamic evaluations, to ensure their durability and performance.
TRC Senior Transportation Officer, Masha Yasin, revealed that the main station for freight rail is the port of Dar es Salaam. He noted that freight wagons stations are categorised, with some dedicated solely to passenger services and others to freight.
“We have stations like Ruvu, Pugu, Morogoro, and Ihumwa, which will be utilised for the freight train,” he said, adding,” the official date for the full commercial operations will be announced in due course.” Dodoma resident, Kassim Kilasa expressed excitement about the freight train, saying that they had been eagerly awaiting its arrival, as it will help goods arrive quickly.
“Business people should seize this opportunity because I believe it will ease the transportation of goods, just as we have already seen with the passenger train,” he said.
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In December 2024, TRC received 264 freight wagons from China, which were part of a larger order of 1,430.
The wagons are specifically designed for the SGR to carry containers and loose cargo, contributing to the expansion of freight transportation capabilities.
The consignment included a vital mix of 200 container wagons and 64 wagons specifically designed to accommodate loose cargo, demonstrating the system’s capacity to handle diverse transportation requirements. This substantial investment in rolling stock stems from a significant 12-month contract, valued at 127.2 million US dollars (about 294bn/- ), inked in 2022 between TRC and the Chinese company CRRC International.
The diverse fleet of wagons acquired under this agreement includes 400 Covered Large Bogie (CLB) wagons, specifically designed for carrying general cargo such as sugar, cement, salt, cotton, tobacco, and coffee commodities vital for both domestic consumption and export markets.
Additionally, 600 Container Carrier Bogie (CCB) wagons are on order, essential for the efficient movement of standardised shipping containers, which are fundamental to modern international trade logistics.
The fleet also features 190 Petroleum Tank Bogies (PTB) for the secure and efficient transportation of all types of fuel, critical for energy distribution across the country.
For bulkier items, 70 High Large Bogies (HLB) are included, designed to handle oversized goods like pipes, wood, and metals, supporting infrastructure development and industrial activities.
Furthermore, 50 Motor Goods Bogies (MGB) are designated for the secure transportation of vehicles, catering to the automotive industry, while 50 Cattle Wagon Bogies (CWB) will provide specialised transport for livestock, ensuring humane and efficient movement of cattle.
