CONSTRUCTION OF A TRACK DEVIATION ON THE NDOLA -SAKANIA RAILWAY LINE
PRESS RELEASE
(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
CONSTRUCTION OF A TRACK DEVIATION ON THE NDOLA -SAKANIA RAILWAY LINE
KABWE, Zambia 5th March ,2025 – Zambia Railways Limited(ZRL) would like to inform the public and all stakeholders that a railway deviation construction project is set to take place for a distance of 400 metres within the reserve strip on the Ndola – Sakania railway line.
The deviation is necessary due to the presence of cavities underground that pose a risk to the existing railway infrastructure.
On 11th February ,2025 , ZRL recorded a sinkhole incident measuring approximately twenty (20) meters in diameter and fifteen (15) metres in depth ,six ( 6) metres away from the railway line. In addition, cracks were also observed twenty (20) metres away from the sinkhole, with some cracks crossing the railway line, leading to the closure of the railway line. On 19th February, 2025 another sinkhole developed approximately eight (8) metres north from the first sinkhole.
To address this, an engineering assessment was conducted, and one of the viable solutions identified is the realignment of the railway track to bypass the affected area. The construction project aims to implement the deviation in a safe and efficient manner.
This approach will enhance safety by preventing potential derailments and structural failures caused by ground instability. It will ensure operational continuity by minimizing train service interruptions through the creation of a stable and secure route. Given the urgency of restoring safe railway operations, as a temporary measure , the track deviation has been prioritized as a proactive and technically sound solution.
Further, ZRL is taking a necessary step to remove squatters and individuals who have illegally engaged in farming activities within the railway reserve area. This exercise is essential to pave way for the construction of a deviation line that will improve the safety and efficiency of the existing railway infrastructure.
The presence of unauthorized occupants and farming activities in the railway reserve poses significant risks to both the individuals involved and the overall integrity of the railway infrastructure.
Our priority is to ensure the safety of all parties involved while also advancing the necessary infrastructure developments for the benefit of the wider community.
We encourage cooperation and understanding from all involved as we work towards the successful completion of the deviation line project.
In addition, ZRL would like to urge the public to desist from encroaching the railway reserve strip as this may lead to consequences that impact safety, infrastructure and the environment.
Issued by:
Sombe Longwani – Ng’onga
Manager Public Relations
Zambia Railways Limited
Email: sombe.longwani@zrl.com.zm
