Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) has handed over K38, 000 to Chikonkomene Railway Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society Limited in Chisamba district of Central Province for the construction of the Chikonkomene Railway Station passenger waiting hall.
ZRL Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Musonda says this is the first ever passenger waiting hall at Chikonkomene Station and would therefore add value to the community.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mr. Musonda has noted that for a long time, Chikonkomene Railway station has been operating without a waiting hall, causing passengers to seek shelter in nearby villages and enduring long hours in extreme weather conditions such as heat, rain, cold and dust winds.
Mr. Musonda says the construction of the waiting hall will improve Zambia Railways Limited passenger service operations, increased revenue and contribute to the development of the area.
He says the facility will have a ticket office, kiosk, veranda, toilets, as well as bathrooms.
Speaking at the same event, Chisamba District Commissioner Martin Chowa has commended the railway company for the joint partnership.
Mr. Chowa says most of the passengers using the railway service were traders from surrounding farms and villages who transport their produce to the city.
He notes that once completed, the facility will contribute to the economic growth of the nation, adding that the Chikonkomene station was one of the busy stations servicing over 150 passengers per train.