Zambia Railways suspends Livingstone–Kitwe passenger train service after derailment

Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) has announced the temporary suspension of passenger train services between Livingstone and Kitwe following the derailment of a goods train between the Zimba and Bowood section in Southern Province.

The incident, suspected to have been caused by a broken rail, involved a northbound goods train No. 222 hauling 28 wagons loaded with coal, according to a statement issued in Lusaka on Monday by ZRL Public Relations Manager Sombe Ng’onga.

Nine of the 28 wagons capsized, causing significant damage to the track and necessitating urgent repair works before both freight and passenger services can resume.

“Fortunately, there were no fatalities or injuries recorded as a result of the derailment,” Ng’onga said.

She explained that the suspension means the passenger train scheduled to depart Livingstone at 20:00 hours on Monday, April 21, 2025, would not operate as planned.

Similarly, the train that was due to leave Kitwe on Friday at 16:00 hours will also not run.

“This decision is in the interest of public safety and to ensure the integrity of our operations remains paramount,” Ng’onga stated.

She assured stakeholders that engineering teams were working around the clock to clear the derailment site and expedite track restoration.

Ng’onga expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and the general public.

“We remain committed to delivering safe and reliable rail services, and we will provide timely updates on the progress of the restoration and resumption of services,” she said.

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