SGR Construction Advances in Narok with Deep Excavation and Drainage Works

Last Updated 1 hour ago by Kenya Engineer

Construction of the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension is progressing in Narok County, where contractors are undertaking deep excavation and preparing drainage infrastructure along the route.

Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip J. Mainga, EBS, recently led a site inspection of ongoing works between chainage DK 168+600 and DK 169+500, where excavation is underway to bring the railway formation to its designed level.

According to Kenya Railways, the excavation extends approximately 20 metres below the existing ground level. Heavy earthmoving equipment is being used to remove and transport material for backfilling the approaches to a bridge crossing the Eburu seasonal river.

The contractor is also preparing to construct an upstream catch-water drain to manage surface runoff and reduce the risk of flooding at the worksite as the rainy season begins.

These activities highlight the earthworks and water-management requirements involved in constructing railway infrastructure across varied terrain. Excavation to the required formation level establishes the foundation for the track structure, while properly designed drainage helps protect the railway formation and associated structures from erosion and water damage.

The latest update confirms active construction at the inspected section in Narok. However, Kenya Railways has not provided a completion timeline or an overall progress percentage for the wider Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba extension in the information released.

The extension is intended to carry the SGR network beyond Naivasha towards Kisumu and the border with Uganda at Malaba, forming part of Kenya’s wider railway development plans.