Tanzania anti-corruption body uncovers ticket evasion issues on electric-powered SGR trains, warns of strict measures
What you need to know:
- PCCB is calling on all passengers to adhere to fare regulations and ensure that their payments reflect their travel distances. Failure to comply will result in strict legal repercussions to protect the integrity and sustainability of the railway services.
Morogoro. The Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) in the Morogoro Region has revealed a growing issue with some passengers on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) evading fare payments.
This practice poses a risk to the financial stability of the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC).
The PCCB’s deputy chief for Morogoro Region, Mr Christopher Mwakajinga, said here on Thursday, August 15, 2024 that an investigation has identified a troubling trend among passengers traveling from Dar es Salaam.
Specifically, those who purchase tickets for short distances, such as Pugu, Soga, Ruvu, and Ngerengere, fail to disembark at their intended stations. Instead, they continue their journey without paying the additional fare required for longer distances.
"PCCB's investigation confirmed that some passengers are exploiting the system by not alighting at their designated stops and continuing their journey without paying the correct fare," Mwakajinga said. "This behavior is causing significant financial losses for the rail corporation."
In response to these findings, PCCB has conducted a meeting with the TRC management. The railway officials have acknowledged the issue and committed to implementing stricter ticket inspection procedures. They have also pledged to impose severe penalties on passengers who evade fares, including fines that are twice the amount of the unpaid fare.
"The TRC management has agreed to enhance ticket inspection and take stringent actions against fare evaders. This includes imposing fines of twice the fare amount for any passengers caught," Mwakajinga added.
Local residents have expressed their concerns about the impact of fare evasion on train services. Neema George, a resident of Mazimbu Road, highlighted the importance of fare revenue in maintaining efficient and safe train services.
"Passengers must recognize that the quality and reliability of train services depend on fare revenue," George emphasized. "Failing to pay the correct fare undermines the economic health of the railway service and could affect all passengers. It is crucial for everyone to be honest and pay the appropriate fare to ensure continued improvements and benefits from the service."
Nicholas Jerome, a resident of Kwachambo, also urged action against fare evaders, noting that the train service provides employment for many, including youth and women involved in small businesses.
"The SGR service has created jobs for many people. If it fails due to a few individuals evading fares, it will negatively impact those who depend on this service for their livelihoods. The government must take firm action against those who evade fare payments," Jerome said.
PCCB is calling on all passengers to adhere to fare regulations and ensure that their payments reflect their travel distances. Failure to comply will result in strict legal repercussions to protect the integrity and sustainability of the railway services.
