Gov't Revives Historic Rail Corridor After 46 Years

Ol Lalou Railway Station

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has welcomed the return of train services along the Ol Kalou railway corridor after decades without operations. He said the restored line will improve transport networks and create new economic opportunities for communities.

The railway resumed operations in June 2026 after remaining inactive for nearly 46 years. The restored route stretches from Gilgil through Ol Kalou to Nyahururu.

Omollo said the government originally built the railway in 1929 to support the movement of farm produce. The line later stopped operating after road transport expanded and maintenance declined over the years.

The government has now restored the corridor to reconnect towns that depended on rail transport. Officials expect the project to improve access to markets and lower transport costs.

Joint Project Restored the Line

Kenya Railways completed the rehabilitation with support from the Kenya Defence Forces Engineering Brigade. Construction teams began restoring the line in 2020 before final preparations allowed services to resume this year.

Omollo said the current administration completed financing and operational arrangements for the project. He added that the railway forms part of broader efforts to revive strategic national infrastructure.

The railway now transports both passengers and freight between Nairobi, Ol Kalou and Nyahururu. Authorities believe the restored service will offer residents a reliable alternative to road transport.

The line also supports the delivery of subsidised fertiliser through the National Cereals and Produce Board depot in Ol Kalou. Officials expect the service to improve agricultural supply chains across the region.

More Cargo Expected on the Corridor

Kenya Railways has reported growing interest from companies seeking to transport goods using the revived railway. Businesses dealing in fertiliser, cement, dairy products and freight logistics have already expressed interest.

The corporation also expects the corridor to handle livestock, farm produce and construction materials. Increased cargo movement could strengthen trade while reducing pressure on major roads.

The project follows the successful return of freight operations earlier this year after a 46-year suspension. Kenya Railways recently transported 396 tonnes of subsidised fertiliser to Ol Kalou and Nyahururu using 11 metre gauge wagons.

Officials believe the restored railway will continue attracting investment while supporting regional development. They also expect passenger numbers and cargo volumes to grow as more users embrace the service.