TZ receives EMU sets from Republic of Korea

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has received two new sets of Electric Multiple Units (EMU) and eight electric train locomotives from South Korea, marking a significant milestone in the country’s railway modernisation efforts.

This delivery is part of a larger purchase by the government through the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) from Hyundai Rotem, a renowned South Korean manufacturer.

According to a statement released by TRC yesterday, the government has ordered a total of ten EMU train sets from Hyundai Rotem.

Each EMU set comprises eight carriages, including a front and rear head, capable of carrying 589 passengers and travelling at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour.

These latest additions bring the total number of EMU sets in Tanzania to three, with the first already undergoing testing since its arrival in April 2024.

In total, TRC has received a substantial fleet upgrade including 65 passenger wagons, 17 electric locomotives, and the three EMU sets.

All equipment is part of the ongoing phased delivery for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). Following further testing to ensure adherence to safety standards, these new trains will be integrated into the SGR network.

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Initial operations and electric train services are already underway between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro.

Official launch for the Dar es Salaam to Dodoma route is slated for July 25th, 2024. To cater to growing demand, TRC has announced changes to the Dar es Salaam-Morogoro route schedule starting July 5, 2024.

This includes an exciting addition: a new express train service that will zip passengers between the two cities without stopping at intermediate stations.

The updated schedule offers departures from Dar es Salaam at 6:00 AM and 7:10 PM, with return trips from Morogoro at 6:20 AM and 7:30 PM.

The existing regular train service will continue to operate with departures from Dar es Salaam at 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM, returning from Morogoro at 9:50 AM and 4:20 PM.

For a smooth travel experience, TRC encourages passengers to purchase tickets online at least 2 hours before departure to avoid queues.

Tickets can be purchased on [TRC’s ticketing website] (https://sgrticket. trc.co.tz) or at station ticket windows.

With the arrival of these advanced electric trains, Tanzania is poised for a significant leap in its railway network’s efficiency and capacity.

This development is expected to contribute positively to the country’s overall economic growth.