Coronavirus: URC suspends commuter train services

COVID-19     TRANSPORT

KAMPALA - The Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) has announced the suspension of commuter train services in Kampala.

In the statement issued Monday and signed by Eng. Charles Kateeba, the managing director of the corporation, the decision took immediate effect until further notice.

"We have decided to suspend our commuter train services effective March 23, 2020 until further notice as we continue to monitor the development of COVID-19," Kateeba said.

The health and safety of the passengers and employees, Kateeba said was the company's priority. 

He added that; "This is to support the ongoing efforts deployed by the health ministry across the country to limit the COVID-19 transmission and to further reduce health risks to our passengers and employees."

Kateeba however said; "The movement of Cargo trains will continue as scheduled and URC and offices and stations across the network will remain open with vigilant measures put in place to combat the spread of COVID-19."

"We, however, continue to urge passengers and the employees to follow recommendations from the ministry of health," he added.

URC has five refurbished coaches with a maximum capacity of 200 passengers. It plies Kampala, Nakawa, New MUBS, Kireka, Namboole, and Namanve.