Kenya Railways Conducts Successful Test Run on Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot lane

Kenya Railways Corporation has successfully conducted a test ride from Uplands Railway Station to Kijabe–Longonot Railway Station, marking a major milestone toward the resumption of operations along the Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) corridor.
The test run comes ahead of the planned reopening of the Uplands–Kijabe–Longonot section, which had been closed following above-normal rainfall experienced in April and May 2024. Heavy rains caused extensive damage along sections of the railway line near Kijabe, washing away parts of the track and rendering the corridor impassable.
The disruption significantly affected rail transport between the Port of Mombasa, Kenya’s hinterland, and neighbouring countries. Freight services were halted, impacting the movement of farm inputs, agricultural produce, steel products, containerized cargo, and other conventional goods.
Speaking during the test ride, Kenya Railways Managing Director Mr. Philip Mainga said the successful test is a major boost to the corporation’s operations and regional trade.
“This development is a big boost to Kenya Railways. Freight transportation is set to resume after the completion of successful test runs, and this milestone brings great relief to traders from Kenya’s western region and our neighbouring countries, including Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” Mr. Mainga said.
He added, “We are delighted to achieve this important milestone today. It clears the way for us to resume normal operations and continue offering safe, reliable, and efficient services to our clients.”
Kenya Railways confirmed that full restoration of the affected railway track has been completed. However, additional protection works and river training works will continue even as train operations gradually resume, to safeguard the infrastructure against future weather-related damage.

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