Chronicle Editor
Lumbidzani Dima, Chronicle Reporter
THE National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) will run a special majestic steam safari train on Unity Day to spice up the festive season.
The special journey will take commuters from Bulawayo station to Plumtree and back.
The safari train is returning after an absence of almost two years.
According to the NRZ, riding on the steam train is not only for steam train enthusiasts, but also for members of the general public who want to celebrate Unity Day in a unique way. This year’s Unity Day is being commemorated under the theme: “ United Towards Vision 2030.”
In a statement, NRZ acting public relations manager, Mr Martin Banda said the locomotives will be pulled by a now- rare locomotive in the world.
“The train will run from Bulawayo to Plumtree. It will be pulled by a Garratt Locomotive, which is one of the few remaining such locomotives in the world still in good running condition,” said Mr Banda.
He said the train will depart Bulawayo Station at 8.45AM and is expected to arrive in Plumtree at 13.15PM.
Passengers will have an opportunity to have a braai at Plumtree Station before the train returns to Bulawayo at 3.30PM, arriving at 6:30PM.
Mr Banda said a cash bar will be available on the train and advised passengers to bring cooler boxes at no extra charge.
He said the train fares will vary, depending on the class of coach, from $8 to $15 for children and $16 to $30 for adults.
“The steam train fares range from $30 for adults and $15 for children in First class coaches, and $25 for adults and $13 for children in Dining coaches. For those travelling in Economy class coaches the fares will be $16 for adults and $8 for children. As a complement when one pays for four people, they get an extra one ticket for free.,” said Mr Banda.
“The steam train excursions have in the past been well received by members of the public, with steam train enthusiasts travelling from abroad to experience rides on NRZ steam trains as they are among the few still operating in the world.”
Mr Banda said the steam train is run by the NRZ’s Rail Leisure Unit as part of a drive to promote domestic tourism and attract international tourists through train trips.
He said strict Covid-19 health protocols will be observed in the train with wearing of masks, sanitising of hands and social distancing to be enforced while those with fever will not be allowed to board.
The NRZ urged families to come out in numbers to enjoy the experience.
Online Reporter