Kenya Railways refutes claims in defense of their masterplan

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Kenya Railways (KR) has defended its decision to import 11 old Spanish trains, saying they’re much cheaper and France being a first world country, has bought similar ones.

Through a statement in the local dailies, KR refuted claims there are vested interests in the deal between the Ministry of Transport and Spain which gave Serveis Ferroviaris de Mallorca a contract to facilitate the purchase of the trains.

“Before the contract for the acquisition of the 11 refurbished DMUs (diesel multiple units) is signed, every effort will be made to ensure there are no illegalities and that the interests of Kenyans are safeguarded.  The government is committed to providing an efficient, safe and reliable commuter rail service,” KR said.

Commuters alight from a stalled train at Muthurwa on April 15, 2015.

The old trains, five coaches and spare parts will cost taxpayers Sh1.15 billion. The parastatal says each train has a lifespan of 23-25 years.

If acquired, the new trains will be deployed to Nairobi Central Station, Syokimau, Embakasi Village, Thika, Kikuyu, and Kitengela.

The masterplan is to help decongest the city which has been almost hard to cope up with. KR in their view, wants to set record of reducing traffic in Nairobi.

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