Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei has announced that President William Ruto will officially launch the Premium Class Coach of the Standard Guage Railway next month.
However the new premium coaches for the Madaraka Express passenger service train received mixed reactions after Transport PS Mohamed Daghar, who inspected the four new coaches, said they are looking at Sh12,000 for a one–way trip and Sh20,000 for a return ticket.
Kadzandani MCA Fatma Kushe, who is the vice chairperson of the Mombasa County Assembly Health Committee, said KRC should have considered increasing health facilities in the coaches instead of putting in more luxury.
“What happens if you are in the business, first or economy class and you get choked by food or you faint? Are there standby nurses on board? Is there any room that can act as a sick bay instead of an announcement calling for any doctor on board?” Kushe asked.
However, Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Maingi has defended the Sh12,000 one-way ticket cost.
Maingi said the ticket cost is value for money which will be provided through entertainment and fine dining services.
"It's costly, yes, but look at the services provided. The entertainment, spacious adjustable seats, and fine dining services are top-notch—there's value for money. There has also been a demand for VIP First Class coaches. Last year, we registered a staggering 2.5 million passengers,” Maingi said.
PS, Sing'oei also defended the ticket prices of the Premium Class Coash saying the VVIP services in the coaches are for marketing purposes for visiting high-profile dignitaries.
"The services here outmatch what they experience in developed countries. This will, in return, boost foreign exchange,” Sing'oei said.
The commercial services of the Premium Class Coach are set to commence in September after an inaugural test ride that ended in Mombasa after a 5-hour journey.
According to Kenya Railways, the first four premium coaches each with a 28-passenger capacity are fitted with luxurious adjustable seats, with a charging area and entertainment features.