Modernising Nairobi commuter rail transport system: Inside govt's plan to decongest city roads

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir early October 2024 commissioned seven Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) Service stations along the Nairobi-Ruiru route, as part of an ambitious plan by the Kenya Kwanza Administration dubbed, the Nairobi Metropolitan Transport Master Plan.

The commissioned stations: Ruiru, Kenyatta University, Kahawa West, Githurai, Mwiki, Dandora, and Mutindwa are a part of the 32 new stations the government will commission to boost capacity of commuters within the Nairobi metropolis.

This plan, which incorporates the NCR Project, is geared towards decongesting roads within the Nairobi metropolitan, and aims at providing passengers with safe, reliable and affordable transport services in and around Nairobi City.

The NCR network consists of four corridors with a total length of 139 km within the Nairobi metropolis. Kenya Railways has completed the construction and modernization of fourteen stations, with six more stations currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Accordingly, the Kenya Railways (KR) has been tasked with undertaking the rehabilitation of the NCR networks, in a bid to modernize the Nairobi Commuter rail transport system. This involves rehabilitation of the railway lines, upgrading of halts to mini stations, modernizing the Nairobi Central Railway Station and increasing the rolling stock.

Modernisation of NCR stations

So far, KR has constructed and mordernised the following NCR stations; Nairobi Railway Central Station, Ruiru, Githurai, Mwiki, Dandora, Kariobangi, Lukenya, Kitengela, Aviation, Mutindwa, Kenyatta University, Satellite, Gitaru, Mlolongo and Konza. Works at Kibera, Makongeni, Mutuini, Thogoto, and Gitambaya NCR stations are still ongoing.

The KR has also overseen the rehabilitation of between 300-500 Meter Gauge Railway coaches at the Nairobi Workshop.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir conducting a familiarisation tour and commissioning of the Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) station, a key component of the Nairobi Metropolitan Transport master plan and the transformative #BETA Agenda.

“KR acquired Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) which are under operation providing reliable, safe and comfortable modern rail transport services,” CS Chirchir says. “Kenya Railways is also underway with the construction of the Ultra-Modern Carriage and Wagon (CXR) Workshop.”

In July 2024, Kenya Railways received a shot in the arm in its endevours after receiving a batch of new passenger service rolling stock which included; 1 Dining car, 4 Premium Class, 4 First Class, 10 Economy Class coaches and Power car 1.

Exclusive Premium Class service

Subsequently, Kenya Railways upgraded the Chinese-built standard gauge railway (SGR) Madaraka Express passenger train with premium class coaches.

In the premium class coaches, passengers can enjoy exclusive access to VIP lounges, WiFi connection, and benefit from priority boarding and disembarkation at the terminals, among other premium services.

These premium coaches feature an optimised seating arrangement with each coach limited to 28 passengers, guaranteeing ample legroom and personal space and maximum comfort throughout the journey.

These coaches also have additional storage options to cater for the needs of travelers with extra baggage, providing a hassle-free travel experience.

Kenya Railways says that the seats in premium coaches are designed for ultimate relaxation and can fully recline akin to a bed with configurations that support privacy and work, allowing passengers to rest or remain productive on transit.

“The coaches are incorporated with automated window shutters and seats that can rotate to face any direction, introducing a new level of sophistication and convenience in rail travel,” KR says in a statement. “Passengers will be treated to complimentary beverages and sumptuous meals on board.”

Additionally, passengers in premium coaches are entitled to a configured WiFi for internet connectivity throughout their journey.