Kenya Railways has announced the immediate suspension of commuter train services on several Nairobi metropolitan routes, citing safety concerns as the reason behind the precautionary measure.
In a public notice dated June 25, 2025, and signed by the Managing Director, the state corporation stated that routes affected by the temporary suspension include Nairobi-Ruiru, Nairobi-Embakasi Village, Nairobi-Lukenya, and Nairobi-Syokimau. The decision, according to the notice, was made with customer safety as the top priority.
“We are compelled to take these precautionary measures because the safety of our customers is of paramount importance to us,” the notice read. Kenya Railways did not provide a timeline for the resumption of services but assured passengers that they would be notified once operations resume.
The corporation apologised for the inconvenience caused, stating, “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
The sudden halt in services is a major disruption for thousands of daily commuters who rely on the affordable and efficient rail transport to navigate Nairobi’s often congested road networks. The routes serve key residential and commercial zones, and the suspension is expected to put added pressure on alternative transport modes such as matatus and private vehicles.
This development comes just a week after Kenya Railways announced the upcoming launch of the Mombasa Commuter Rail service, a project poised to transform transport within the coastal city. In a statement issued on June 18, the corporation said the new service would streamline the last-mile journey for travellers arriving at the Miritini Terminus on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
“Imagine, no more long, costly transfers from Mombasa Terminus and easier movement for families, tourists, traders and students,” Kenya Railways stated.
Currently, passengers alighting from the SGR in Miritini must use matatus, taxis or boda bodas to reach Mombasa’s city centre, a distance of about 11 kilometres. The Mombasa Commuter Rail service is expected to address this inconvenience, providing a seamless connection for commuters.
While Nairobi services pause temporarily, anticipation grows for improved rail connectivity in Mombasa, reflecting Kenya Railways’ broader efforts to enhance urban mobility across the country.
