Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has unveiled plans for a new commuter railway line connecting Riruta to Ngong. The proposed Sh8.2 billion project, known as the Riruta-Ngong Metre Gauge Railway (MGR) Commuter Project, is set to revolutionize transport in the region, potentially easing the daily commute for thousands of Nairobi and Kajiado residents.
The railway line, designed to enhance connectivity between Nairobi and Kajiado, will branch off from the Nairobi-Kikuyu line at Riruta. It will traverse through Dagoretti South and Lang’ata sub-counties in Nairobi before entering Kajiado County and terminating in Ngong town. The new route will feature four key stations at Lenana, Karen, Bulbul, and Ngong, strategically located to serve major residential and commercial areas.
One of the notable components of the project is the construction of a three-kilometre bridge connecting the Southern Bypass to Karen Shopping Centre. This bridge aims to facilitate smoother transit and reduce traffic congestion in the Karen area, which is currently a bottleneck for commuters.
Kenya Railways Corporation anticipates that the entire project will be completed within 12 months from the commencement of construction. Following this period, there will be an additional 12-month defect liability phase, during which the contractor will be responsible for addressing any issues that may arise and ensuring the railway system meets the expected standards of performance and safety.
The primary objective of the Riruta-Ngong railway line is to tackle the transportation challenges faced by commuters traveling from Ngong to Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). With Nairobi’s rapid urbanization and population growth, traffic congestion on major roads such as Ngong Road has become increasingly problematic. The new railway line is expected to provide a reliable and efficient alternative, potentially reducing travel time and alleviating pressure on road networks.
According to the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the project is designed with environmental and social considerations in mind. The assessment outlines the anticipated impacts and measures to mitigate any negative effects, ensuring that the project aligns with sustainable development goals.
The introduction of the Riruta-Ngong commuter railway is expected to boost the local economy by improving access to key commercial hubs and residential areas. Additionally, it will likely enhance property values in the areas surrounding the new stations, fostering economic growth and development.
Overall, the Riruta-Ngong railway project represents a significant investment in Nairobi’s and Kajiado’s transportation infrastructure. By providing a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of transport, Kenya Railways Corporation aims to improve the quality of life for residents, ease traffic congestion, and support the region’s continued growth and development. As the project progresses, it will be closely monitored to ensure that it meets its ambitious timelines and delivers on its promises of enhanced connectivity and reduced travel times.
