The Company
Njanji Commuter Services started operations on 8th July 1991 as Mulungushi Commuter Railways under Mulungushi Investments Limited, then a subsidiary of Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines (ZCCM). After the pullout of Mulungushi Investments, GRZ appointed Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) under an agreement to manage and operate the Commuter on a year to year basis, taking over from ZCCM effectively from 1st June, 1992.
The 16 Kilometre Njanji Commuter line was designed to de-congest traffic in Lusaka City while providing a cheap affordable form of transport for middle-class personnel residing in the Chilenje-Libala township area east of Lusaka city centre, and George township area located on the western side of the city.
However, due to various operational and technical problems coupled with a weak financial base, Njanji Commuter ceased operations on 14th October,1998.
Status of Njanji Line Infrastructure
Njanji has 3 types of sleepers: concrete, wooden and metal. Of these three types the concrete sleepers
are long lasting and are unlikely to be removed. The wooden sleepers have a life span of 10 -15 years if
well preserved but are subjected to degradation by decaying. The metal components, fishplate, bolts,
metal sleepers and rails are susceptible to removal for scrap metal. Currently Njanji has no locomotives
and coaches.
The Njanji Commuter Operator will need to provide locomotives and put in place new rolling stock before commencing operations. GRZ would ensure that the concession period is long enough to recover the investment by the Operator.
Prospects for Rail Transportation in Lusaka
The population of Zambia is highly urbanised with around 55% of the population living in Lusaka City
and the larger towns, mainly along the line of the railway running from Livingstone town in the south to
Chililabombwe town in the north.
The population with access to Njanji Commuter Services stands at well over 800,000 people. Njanji rail line has the potential to expand it's network further to other residential areas around Lusaka.
ZPA is in the process of packaging the concession following which it will be advertised. Expressions of Interest from investors are welcome.
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