The Zambia Railway Limited ZRL this morning presented to the public four out of 100 train wagons that will be used on the Chipata-Mchinji Railway line starting next month.
And ZRL Director for Nacala, Vyonsi Manda, says that the 100 train wagons expected in the province, will have a capacity of 120, 000 metric tonnes.
Speaking at the unveiling of the wagons, Mr. Manda, expressed optimism that the local community in the province will be able to benefit greatly from job creation, stating that so far, 35 local people have been employed.
And officiating at the occasion, Permanent Secretary Chileshe Mulenga, noted that the commissioning of the railway line will come along with various challenges.
Dr. Mulenga instructed the Chipata Municipal Council and the office of the Chipata District Commissioner to be proactive in identifying the necessary changes, which they will need to be implemented once the railway line is fully operational.
He further noted that some roads in Chipata will have to undergo some major works, in order to accommodate trucks which will be used to transport bulky goods offloaded from the train.
The Permanent Secretary commended President Michael Sata, for ensuring that the railway line is commissioned, after years of being neglected.