SGR Cargo To Continue Operations For 24-hours Amid Covid-19 Crisis

The Cargo train operating on the Standard Gauge Railway will continue with operations for 24 hours even during the COVID-19 crisis.

The move is seen to allow seamless movement of goods during the coronavirus pandemic that has limited the operations of passenger trains.

However, the passenger trains will continue to operate during the day with the SGR officials stating the schedule has been adjusted to conform to the 7 p.m to 5 am curfew.

According to Kenya Railways managing Director Philip Mainga, the contracted operator of Madaraka Express train and the SGR cargo Africa star have been directed to allow operations of the Cargo train to ensure there is a steady supply of goods from the port.

Mr. Mainga urged businessmen who depend on the SGR freight to take full advantage of the opportunity by continuing to supply their goods to various parts of the country.

“The SGR cargo service will continue to operate as scheduled. Kenya Railways advises actors in the freight business to take advantage of the SGR and Meter Gauge Railway synergies to leverage their prospects,” said Mainga.

The Kenya Railways MD also acknowledged that there has been a low count of imports at the port due to Coronavirus but assured traders that their goods will be secured.

“We remain committed to the provision of efficient and reliable freight transport services during this difficult moment,” he added.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the count of goods arriving at the Port of Mombasa have decreased rapidly.

The services at the ports have also been on the slow following the government’s directive that goods should be thoroughly inspected before being allowed into the country.

Goods like second-hand clothes commonly known as Mitumba have also been barred from entering the country as they are likely to spread coronavirus to those who wear them.

“Kenya Railways wishes to advise all users of SGR cargo services to adhere to all health and non-health guidelines as provided by the Ministry of Health,” Mr. Mainga said.