Week after SGR launch,KR looks to launch new online ticket payment platform

Kenya Railways has revealed that seven thousand customers have so far travelled on the newly launched Madaraka Express between Mombasa and Nairobi.

This is the highest number ever recorded in one week. The first phase of the Standard Gauge Rail service, which was launched by President Kenyatta, is currently operating with scheduled passenger trains from Nairobi and Mombasa running on a daily basis.

Kenya Railways Managing Director, Mr. Atanas Maina said, “Over the last week we have experienced a daily surge in passenger numbers. The growing numbers demonstrate the vital role Kenya Railways plays in our nation’s transportation system; we are definitely off to a strong start.”

“With demand for our services at an all-time high we are looking forward to scheduling additional trains.  The combination of state-of-the-art design, unrivalled comfort and convenience means that we are well placed to meet the growing demand as passengers increasingly opt for our services over other existing means,” he further explained.

In addition to growing passenger numbers, Kenya Railways has also announced that plans to launch the new online ticket payment platform to be unveiled on Monday, to  ensure convenience in travel for all customers.

KR is also under way to introducing the intercounty trains that will make stops at Athi River, Emali, Kibwezi, Mtito, Voi, Miasenyi and Mariakani before the final stop at Miritini.

The train is scheduled to start routine operations by July and KR together with the operator China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) have put together a joint team to address the customer service issues in order to ensure that the service remains efficient and convenient to the customers.

“Without a doubt we have many passengers who intend to carry out their businesses across the five counties that the line traverses and this new train will ensure that we play our role in devolution by connecting businesses,” Mr. Maina explained.

The company has also announced a partnership with National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to enable private bus operators provide last mile services to and from the various destinations along the route.