21 October 1983
Zimbabwe will make history in the SADCC region’s transport system tomorrow when the first electric passenger train in the region runs from Dabuka to Harare.
The train, with no name or number yet, will leave Gweru at about 9.45am and will reach Harare at about 4.30pm carrying top Government officials and other dignitaries.
Before boarding the train, dignitaries will inspect a guard of honour and a plaque, commemorating the event, will be unveiled.
Traditional dancers will provide entertainment.
The train will move from Gweru and stop at every station along the rail line until it finally reaches Harare.
Zimbabwe is the first country in the SADCC region to electrify its railway system. The electrification programme cost about $140 million.
The chief NRZ commercial manager, Mr Ron Bull, says the NRZ was vital to the SADCC transport network and should be maintained.
“The NRZ has a degree of sophistication which cannot be matched in the region,” he said.
The Minister of Transport, Cde Farai Masango, says the use of electric locomotives would save the country much needed foreign currency and would also reduce the railway’s operating costs.
Lesson for Today
- National Railways of Zimbabwe operated electric trains on the Harare-Dabuka line. The 305 km route was electrified in 1983 and the inaugural train ran on 22 October 1983.
- The electric train remains a viable option in the mass public transport system. There is also the need to protect the infrastructure against vandals.
