President William Ruto has officially commissioned the Mombasa commuter rail service.
The new rail service connects Mombasa central business district (CBD) to the Standard gauge railway station in Miritini.
With strategic stops at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, Mazeras, and Mombasa CBD, the service is expected to transport up to 4,000 passengers daily.
It is designed to not only decongest the city’s roads but also provide a safer, more affordable, and time-saving alternative for commuters and tourists alike.
Speaking during the commissioning, Ruto termed this as a vital solution some of the city’s most pressing challenges.
"For too long, passengers commuting between the Mombasa central business district and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus at Miritini have endured congestion, delays, and the burden of unreliable road traffic." said Ruto.
Adding " With this new service, journeys will be faster, safer, and more predictable. It will cut commuting time between Mombasa town and the SGR terminal, reduce road gridlocks, lower accidents and costs, and provide residents and visitors with a modern, affordable, and reliable travel option."
Passengers will be required to pay a 50 Shillings fare charge to use the train
Ruto noted "The cost of a matatu ride from the terminus to the city is about Sh400 per person, while a taxi costs approximately Sh1,000. This new service charges only Sh50, making a huge price difference."
The new service will offer a “Park and Ride” or “Drop and Ride” options.
The event was was also attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir ,Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho and his sports counterpart Salim Mvurya, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, local Mps among other leaders.
