Silverio Omari
One person has tragically died and 59 others were injured in a commuter train accident at KMQ, Magadi, Kajiado County. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, July 9, 2024, with 30 of the injured reported to be in critical condition, according to police.
Eyewitnesses and authorities stated that the Magadi-Kajiado commuter train rolled backwards on a steep section of track, resulting in injuries among its passengers, with one fatality at the scene. The train was en route from Magadi to Kajiado town with 59 passengers on board.
Witnesses described hearing a loud noise followed by cries for help from the passengers. The injured were initially treated at the Mile 46 dispensary before being transferred to Kajiado Referral Hospital for specialized care. Fred Ayani, the hospital’s superintendent, confirmed a total of 46 casualties, with approximately 20 suffering serious injuries. The deceased has been identified, and their body is being held at the hospital morgue.
Ten critically injured patients with multiple fractures have been referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for further treatment.
Local residents attributed the accident to frequent vandalism of the railway tracks and poor visibility caused by heavy rains in the area. They noted ongoing challenges with scrap metal theft along the railway line, often evading detection by inspection units.
The commuter train, vital as the primary public transport option, charges Sh70 for a 135-kilometer journey from Magadi to Kajiado. Additionally, the train supports cargo transport, moving trona from Magadi to its depot in Kajiado town for onward shipment to Mombasa for export.
Initiated to alleviate transport difficulties in remote villages of Kajiado West Sub-county, the commuter train service contrasts with the typical Sh700 and four-hour journey via the Kiserian-Isinya route to reach Kajiado town.
Dj Vnyash
