Tanzania launches electric rail service: Video

A new electrified commuter railway between key hubs was launched in Tanzania on Thursday, July 25.

Built by a Turkish company, the 440-kilometer (273-mile) line is part of a Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) network designed to connect the northern and western regions of the country to Dar es Salaam, the Indian Ocean port city.

The train features air-conditioned carriages from South Korea equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and has quickly gained popularity among travellers, who are accustomed to the unreliable, diesel-powered buses that have long dominated Tanzania's public transport system.

"I am so happy with this service since it will bring big contributions, especially by creating employment for many teenagers. It will increase the number of tourists who will be visiting our country. But above all it has really helped make transport smoother," a passenger said.

The Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) announced that daily trips between Dodoma and Dar es Salaam will be operational, reducing the usual lengthy bus journey to approximately three and a half hours.

Analysts anticipate that the new rail system will offer a safer and more reliable transportation option for Tanzania's growing population. The railway is expected to help reduce carbon emissions, as well as noise and air pollution.