Joseph Isangura
To alleviate traffic congestion in Arusha City, the government has announced plans to upgrade the northern railway line.
This move is aimed at reducing the number of cargo trucks that pass through the city from Tanga Port, while also boosting the port’s efficiency.
On January 8, Transport Minister Prof Makame Mbarawa shared the government’s plans during a press conference. He emphasized that improving the northern railway, which runs from Dar es Salaam to Arusha, with a branch line extending to Tanga via Korogwe, is a top priority for the government.
“Upgrading the port alone isn’t enough,” said Prof Mbarawa. “You also have to ensure that the supporting infrastructure, like railways, is in place to keep things running smoothly. That’s why we’re focused on improving the northern railway.”
The railway line is crucial for transporting goods from Tanga Port, and with the growing volume of cargo trucks passing through Arusha, it has become essential to shift more freight to rail. This will ease traffic on the roads and help businesses move goods faster and more efficiently.
The planned railway upgrades are part of a larger effort to improve Tanzania’s transport infrastructure. Prof Mbarawa also revealed that the government has already allocated Sh420 billion to enhance Tanga Port. With these upgrades, Tanga Port’s capacity has surpassed that of Mtwara Port, marking a major milestone in the country’s transport sector.
The improvements to the northern railway will help reduce congestion, particularly in urban areas like Arusha, while also improving the overall efficiency of Tanga Port. This move is part of a broader vision to make the country’s transport network more reliable and reduce the burden on the road network.
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In addition to the railway upgrades, the government is planning to build modern inland container depots (ICDs) that will store goods closer to key transport routes. This will allow for smoother distribution of goods to different regions and cut down delays at the ports.
“These inland depots will help store goods closer to where they’re needed, making it easier and faster to move products throughout the country,” Prof Mbarawa explained.
The railway and infrastructure improvements are expected to make a significant difference to the economy, creating better conditions for businesses and fostering regional and global trade. The government’s investment in the transport sector signals a long-term commitment to modernizing the country’s logistics capabilities.
With these efforts, Tanzania is taking major strides in improving its transportation network, positioning itself as a more competitive player in regional and global trade.
