Tanzania Railways Launches New Electric Multiple Unit Train SGR Service Between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma

On 1st November 2024, the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) officially launched its Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) service, providing a faster and more efficient travel option between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.

The first train, which departed at 2:00 AM, arrived in Dodoma at 5:00 AM, offering passengers a shortened journey time of more than 40 minutes.

The new service, which operates four daily round trips, aims to enhance passenger mobility and promote economic development along the route.

The EMU service is designed for medium-distance travel and offers a quieter, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alternative to other forms of transport.

Each train has a capacity of 589 passengers, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 to 150,000 Tanzanian Shillings, offering business and royal class options.

During the launch, Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Hon. Rosemary Senyamule, welcomed the new service, praising it for contributing to Dodoma’s economic growth. “The EMU service will play a key role in increasing the flow of people and goods, supporting local businesses, and providing a reliable transport option,” she said.

On his part, TRC Director-General, Masanja Kadogosa, emphasized that the launch is part of Tanzania’s broader effort to modernize its rail network. “This is a crucial step forward in enhancing the transport system, ensuring that Tanzania’s rail infrastructure keeps pace with the growing demand for commuter services,” he stated.

The EMU service is part of Tanzania’s ongoing Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, which seeks to connect major cities across the country and reduce reliance on road transport.

While the SGR trains are primarily designed for long-distance and freight transport, the EMU service specifically targets high-frequency commuter routes, offering faster travel between Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, and Dodoma.