Kenya Railways has cautioned motorists and members of the public against driving or parking along railway tracks, warning that the practice poses serious safety risks and is punishable by law.
In a public notice issued Friday, the corporation termed the behaviour dangerous, saying it endangers motorists, passengers and train operations.
“This behaviour poses a serious risk to the safety of motorists, passengers, and train operations. It may also result in severe accidents, damage to property, injury, or loss of life,” the notice read.
Kenya Railways stressed that railway lines and reserves are strictly designated for train operations, and any unauthorised use amounts to an offence.
Offenders, the corporation added, are liable to prosecution.
For public safety, the corporation urged Kenyans to avoid walking or driving along tracks and to only cross at designated level crossings.
“Your cooperation will help us keep our railways safe for all,” the management appealed.
The notice also reminded road users to always observe traffic and railway safety rules.
For further information, Kenya Railways advised the public to contact 0709 907 000 or 0709 907 555, or email [email protected].
Dangers of driving along railway tracks
Driving along railway tracks is extremely dangerous, both for motorists and for train operations.
Dangers include the risk of collision with trains, as they cannot swerve or stop quickly. A moving train takes a long time to halt, meaning any vehicle on the tracks is at high risk of being hit.
Such collisions are often fatal due to the massive weight and speed of trains.
Another danger is vehicle damage, and railway lines are not designed for cars. Wheels can get stuck in the rails or on uneven ground, leaving drivers stranded on the tracks.
Low-clearance vehicles are especially prone to getting caught.
Additionally, accidents to passengers and pedestrians.
Driving or parking on the tracks endangers not just the driver but also passengers and pedestrians crossing nearby.
In emergencies, passengers may not have time to escape.
Another danger disruption of train services. Unauthorised driving along tracks can delay trains, causing disruptions to passenger and cargo transport.
Even minor obstructions can force operators to stop or reroute trains.
In Kenya, as Kenya Railways emphasised, it is illegal to drive or park along railway lines. Offenders face prosecution, fines, and possible imprisonment under transport and safety laws.
Further, a collision or derailment caused by vehicles on tracks can destroy cars, trains, cargo, and nearby property.
Repair costs are high and usually borne by offenders.
Perhaps the gravest danger: accidents involving trains often lead to multiple fatalities, not only for drivers but also for passengers in both the train and vehicle.
