The Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA), in partnership with Aries Engineering and Consulting Services, successfully carried out a five-day field assessment exercise as part of the ongoing initial activities for the proposed development of the National Railway Master plan for the reintroduction of Sierra Leone’s national railway system.
The assessment covered all the towns and cities along the colonial era railway lines, including but not limited to, Songo, Rotifunk, Bauya Junction, Bo, Gerihun, Kenema and Pendembu. The exercise brought together Paramount Chiefs, Section Chiefs, Town Chiefs, local government officials, community elders, and other stakeholders to gather historical information, assess the condition of the former railway infrastructure, and solicit public views on the proposed railway restoration project.
During the engagements, stakeholders unanimously welcomed the Government’s initiative, describing the former railway as a vital driver of transportation, trade, agriculture, employment, and national development. Many community leaders recalled how the railway connected rural communities to major commercial centers, enabled farmers to transport agricultural produce to markets, and created employment opportunities for thousands of Sierra Leoneans.
Several stakeholders highlighted the transportation difficulties communities have experienced since railway operations ceased, particularly the high cost of moving goods and passengers and the limited access to markets and essential services. They expressed optimism that restoring the railway would reduce transportation costs, improve regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and promote national integration.
The technical team from SLRDRA and Aries Engineering also inspected sections of the former railway alignments, train stations , bridges, embankments, and drainage structures, while collecting engineering data and documenting areas affected by encroachment, vegetation, and erosion. The information gathered during the exercise will contribute to the preparation of the National Railway Master Plan and feasibility studies to be carried out by a reputable international engineering firm.
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