Joy as TRC boosts northern train services amid holiday rush
What you need to know:
- The new schedule, which includes an additional service every Wednesday, was unveiled in a public notice issued on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) has announced a welcome boost to its train services to the northern regions, responding to the growing demand during the festive season.
Starting this week, train services to Tanga, Kilimanjaro, and Arusha will increase from two to three trips per week.
The new schedule, which includes an additional service every Wednesday, was unveiled in a public notice issued on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
This marks a significant step in easing travel for many Tanzanians looking to reconnect with loved ones or take advantage of the holiday season.
Previously, the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) operated between Dar es Salaam and the northern regions on Mondays and Fridays.
Now, travelers will have the added convenience of a mid-week journey, helping to accommodate the expected surge in passengers.
TRC head of the public relations department, Mr Fredy Mwanjala, explained that the move specifically aimed at addressing the spike in passenger numbers during the busy holiday period.
"The Wednesday service is a targeted effort to manage the high demand for travel to the northern regions as people head home for the festive season," says Mr Mwanjala in the notice.
The corporation also revealed that from Monday, December 9, until early January, a fleet of 18 coaches will be deployed on the routes.
These coaches will accommodate an average of 1,000 and 1,200 passengers.
TRC reassured passengers that the fare structure will remain unchanged, as travelers will continue paying the same rates as before, ensuring that the price tag for a festive trip doesn’t come as a surprise.
For those heading to Moshi, in the Kilimanjaro Region, fares for Grade III passengers will remain at Sh16,500, while Grade II (seating) will cost Sh23,000 and Grade II (sleeping) will stay at Sh39,100.
For travelers to Arusha, the fares will remain the same, with Grade III passengers paying Sh18,700, Grade II (seating) at Sh26,700, and Grade II (sleeping) at Sh44,400.
With the fast-approaching festive season, the TRC’s move comes as a relief to many, ensuring smoother travel and more flexibility for passengers eager to make the most of the festive period.
