Kenya's SGR records 13.8 per cent surge in Q3 passenger traffic and cargo volume

Kenya's Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) has experienced a remarkable surge in both passenger and cargo numbers, marking a substantial uptick in economic activity, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) announced on Friday.

In the third quarter of 2023 (July-September), the SGR witnessed a notable 13.8 per cent increase in passenger traffic, with the number of passengers reaching an impressive 701,132.

This surge is attributed to the resurgence in economic activities, showcasing a substantial growth from 615,760 passengers during the same period in 2022.

The KRC, responsible for managing the industry, provided these statistics.

Breaking down the passenger statistics further, the railway transported 597,506 passengers in the first three months of 2023, and in the second quarter, it ferried 652,299 passengers, reflecting a consistent upward trend.

Cumulatively, the SGR has ferried 1.95 million passengers in the first nine months up to September, surpassing the 1.74 million recorded during the equivalent period in 2022.

The KRC notes that this trajectory positions the SGR to exceed the 2.39 million passengers recorded in 2022, setting a new high for the year.

Simultaneously, the SGR cargo train has demonstrated significant growth, hauling 1.73 million tonnes of cargo in the third quarter.

This marks an increase from the 1.57 million tonnes transported during the same period in 2022, further emphasizing the railway's vital role in facilitating the movement of goods.

The overall performance of the SGR underscores its pivotal role in the transportation sector and its contribution to the country's economic development.

As the year progresses, the railway is poised to break previous records, solidifying its status as a key player in Kenya's transportation infrastructure.