Kenya Railways Announces Suspension Of Nairobi Commuter Service

Kenya Railways has announced the suspension of the Nairobi Commuter Rail services until January 2, 2024.

In a notice, the railway firm revealed that the service plying Ruiru, Embakasi Village, Limuru, Lukenya and Syokimau will be affected by the suspension from Thursday, December 21.

"We wish to inform customers that: The Nairobi Commuter Rail Services to Ruiru, Embakasi Village, Limuru, Lukenya and Syokimau will be suspended from 21st December 2023 till 2nd January 2024," the statement read in part.

Kenya Railways did not reveal why it was suspending the key service routes in the capital, though being a festive season, many Kenyans have travelled upcountry hence it is anticipated to be a slow season for the Nairobi Commuter Rail services.

However, the firm revealed that the below services will be available throughout the holiday period:

• The Link train operating between Nairobi Central Railway station and Nairobi Terminus serving Madaraka Express Passenger Service customers
• The Nanyuki Safari train
• The Kisumu Safari train
• The Suswa Leisure train
• The Madaraka Express Passenger Service train

"We take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a happy festive season," wished Kenya Railways to its customers.

On Friday, November 24, Kenya Railways announced the return of midweek train services to Kisumu and Nanyuki with the festive season now just around the corner.

The train will depart from Nairobi to Kisumu on Wednesdays at 6.30 pm in addition to the usual Friday schedule. For the return trip, those wishing to travel to Nairobi from Kisumu can catch the train leaving on Thursdays at 6.30 pm in addition to the usual Sunday schedule.

As per the current price schedule, an economy ticket will set you back Ksh600 while a first-class ticket goes for Ksh2,000.

At the same time, those travelling to Nanyuki from Nairobi can catch their train which departs the capital's Railway Station at 9.00 am on Tuesday and Friday. Those travelling back to Nairobi from Nanyuki will catch the train from Nanyuki in Laikipia County at 9.00 am on Wednesday and Sunday.

First-class tickets for the route cost Ksh1,000, while economy-class seats go for Ksh200.

Kenya Railways attributed the increase in train services to the upcoming festive season which witnesses peak travel activity as Kenyans proceed to other parts of the country for holiday and to visit their families back home for Christmas and the New Year.

"Exciting news! Embark on a special journey this festive season aboard the Kisumu and Nanyuki Midweek Train service.

"Explore Kenya's breathtaking nature as the trains traverse through the scenic plains. Travel safe with us," stated Kenya Railways.

However, the corporation did not state for how long the midweek train services would last.

Inside a Nairobi-Kisumu train. /KENYA RAILWAYS