THE new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Station in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, stands as an architectural marvel with its sky-blue glass facade and airport-like opulence. Inside, passengers navigate through escalators and state-of-the-art amenities, including modern ticketing counters and plush waiting lounges with charging ports.
Built by Turkish company Yapi Merkezi, the SGR electric train project, costing nearly $2bn, marks a significant advancement in Tanzania’s transportation infrastructure. The project aims to enhance domestic connectivity, trade, and economic opportunities with neighbouring countries like Uganda and Rwanda. The completed section from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma spans approximately 460 kilometres (285 miles) and will be officially inaugurated on July 1.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, during a recent trial run, hailed the electric rail as an ‘historic moment’ for the nation. ‘The electric rail will reduce traveling time for people, boost trade connectivity, and help in environmental conservation efforts,’ Majaliwa stated.
The SGR’s entire route will eventually cover nearly 1,300 kilometres (810 miles) from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and Kigoma, connecting to Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika, respectively. The SGR is also part of the Central Corridor initiative, linking the Democratic Republic of the Congo and landlocked countries like Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda to Tanzania’s key port of Dar es Salaam.
The train promises a stark departure from the chaotic rides of the past, with an average speed of 74 miles per hour. Passenger coaches offer 45 business class and 78 economy seats, both equipped with modern facilities. The cargo carriages are designed to carry 22 million tons of cargo annually.
Masanja Kadogosa, Director General of the Tanzania Railway Corporation, emphasised the stringent safety standards for the SGR, noting, ‘Detailed technical tests have been carried out to ensure the most efficient operations.’ Dar es Salaam resident Ibrahim Mkotya expressed his enthusiasm, saying, ‘This is one of the best investments for our nation. It will prove very important for the economy.’
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