On Wednesday 4 September 2024 H.E Dr Lazarus Chakwera welcomed the first Fuel Train carrying 1.2 million litres of Diesel from Beira in Mozambique at Marka Train Station.
72 Kilometres Railway reconstruction project which Malawi has embarked own
In his speech President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera reaffirmed his commitment to revamp the rail transportation networks which were neglected by the previous administrations.
He said the resumption of the railway line in the country will help to enhance the socio-economic development of the country.
“Most people were doubting that my administration will revamp the railway line. I am glad today that this railway line is functional,” he added.
Chakwera said last month the train carrying fuel arrived in Lilongwe after suspension of such services for 21 years.
“What I said on September 4, 2020, has come true. Today I am witnessing the arrival of a train at Marka carrying fuel after 41 years,” he said.
On this note, Chakwera asked communities to be patient as his administration is committed to implement long lasting development projects in the country.
Minister of Transport, Jacob Hara said the arrival of the train is a milestone in transport infrastructure development.
Hon. Jocob Hara MP assured the nation that the Ministry will speed up the project so that the new railway line reach Nsanje the soonest where a transhipment bay will be constructed.
The successful arrival of the train is a mile stone and signify the need of the railway project which will increase the country access to sea port via railway to two as currently the country has only been relying on the port of Nacala.
Increased access to the port via railway means that the country can now access more dry and wet goods from the two sea ports as well as export.
Apart from reducing costs of imports and exports use of the railway will ease pressure for the roads and the cost of mainlining roads.