A PARLIAMENTARY delegation from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has expressed confidence in the standard gauge railway (SGR) project as a clear demonstration of Tanzania’s commitment to infrastructure development.

John Banza, head of the delegation, made this declaration upon a visit to the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) headquarters and taking a high-speed train from Dodoma to Dar es Salaam on Thursday.

The visit was intended to observe first-hand the SGR project’s progress in its construction and operation as an international-standard railway, with the fast train services already serving the Dar es Salaam to Dodoma flagship section.

He said the SGR project is testimony of Tanzania’s ability to mobilize resources and efforts for public benefit, particularly in the transport sector, hailing the sort of experience the delegation took in the rapid train journey.

 “We travelled from Dodoma to Dar es Salaam yesterday on the fast-moving train, and we have learned a lot. More importantly, Tanzania is doing everything possible to make development strides,” he said, describing SGR construction as a “remarkable achievement for Africa.”

The railway will have a major role in spurring economic growth, he said, expressing satisfaction with fruitful discussions between the parliamentary delegation and the TRC management.

The talks provided valuable insights into the implementation of the SGR project and potentiality for its adoption in the DRC, he said, extolling SGR construction as a ‘miracle.’

“We’ve gained great insight into how it was implemented. As parliamentarians, we represent a powerful force, and we will return home to encourage our government to expedite SGR construction,” the delegation leader declared.

Senzige Kisenge, the TRC acting director general, affirmed that the launch of SGR train operations has significantly boosted potential for speeding up economic activity with the high-speed, large-capacity transport facility.

The speed train serves as a key transport link between major cities while enabling closer regional cooperation, raising bilateral ties around the region to a higher level.

A week ago, TRC introduced additional services with electric multiple units (EMUs) (wagons) on the Dar es Salaam - Dodoma route in response to rising demand for rapid rail transit.

Upwards of 9,000 to 10,000 passengers travel daily between the capital and the commercial two cities highlighting the urgent need for more efficient transport solutions.

Masanja Kadogosa, the TRC director general, affirmed that there would be four daily EMU trips between the two cities, while asserting that even with this expansion, demand for rapid transit remains high.

To meet future passenger demand, TRC plans to deploy two more pairs of EMUs, as part of expectations tied with the SGR project, to further contribute to economic integration, social development and take ties with neighbouring countries to the next level, he added.