The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Passenger train services between Nairobi and Nyahururu have officially resumed after a 46-year break, marking the revival of one of Kenya’s historic railway corridors.
On Monday, the sound of a train whistle once again echoed along the Nairobi–Gilgil–Ol Kalou–Nyahururu route as the first passenger service departed Nairobi Central Railway Station at around 1:30pm, restoring a line that had been inactive since 1980.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano is expected to formally launch the Ol Kalou–Nyahururu section on Tuesday, following extensive rehabilitation works carried out by Kenya Railways.
The line, popularly known as the “Thompson Railway” due to its connection to Thompson Falls in Nyahururu, was originally built in the 1920s and became operational in 1929. It once played a key role in opening up the Aberdare Highlands and parts of the Rift Valley by transporting passengers, livestock, timber, and agricultural produce.
However, the 77.8-kilometre Gilgil–Ol Kalou–Nyahururu stretch fell into disuse over the years due to deteriorating infrastructure and reduced freight activity, eventually leading to the suspension of services.
Kenya Railways said the restoration is part of a broader government effort to modernise the national railway system and improve transport connectivity across regions. The rehabilitation works included track repairs, ballasting, clearing of overgrown vegetation, upgrading stations, and refurbishing locomotives and other equipment.
Fare structures have also been announced, with economy class tickets ranging from Sh450 between Nairobi and Gilgil, Sh550 to Ol Kalou, and Sh600 to Nyahururu. First-class fares are set at Sh960, Sh1,160, and Sh1,300 respectively. The service will operate four times a week.
Even before the official relaunch, freight operations had already resumed, including the transport of 396 tonnes of subsidised fertiliser from Athi River to National Cereals and Produce Board depots in Ol Kalou and Nyahururu.
Kenya Railways said the revived line is expected to boost economic activity by improving access to markets, reducing transport costs, and supporting both trade and tourism in the region. It will also facilitate cargo movement to the Naivasha Inland Container Depot, strengthening the country’s logistics network.
The agency added that the return of both passenger and freight services will enhance mobility, attract investment, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic growth in line with Vision 2030 development goals.
