The National Assembly’s Committee on Transport, Public Works and Housing has cleared the controversial Standard Gauge Railway project, saying the government should expedite its intended contracts with a Chinese company. The committee urged the government to fast track the developments to enable the project commence. “The government should proceed with the process of implementing the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway project due to the immense benefits that will accrue to the people of Kenya during the construction period and upon completion of the project,” Committee Chairman told the House after it concluded its probe on the project. Benefits of the Standard Gauge Railway development Economic Benefits: The railway development will have the following immediate economic benefits: • Reduced cost of transportation in the region making it an attractive investment destination. • Protect the environment through reduced carbon emission. • Accelerate industrialisation through easier and cheaper transport and the establishment of new industries to service the new railway. • Contribute to an annual GDP growth of at least 1.5% during construction and subsequent operation. • Enhance the region’s competitiveness. • Reduce congestion at Mombasa Port securing the port as the preferred facility in the region. • Reduce wear and tear on roads; hence reduce maintenance cost. • Enhanced freight security. Social Benefits: The following social benefits will be realised during the construction and operation of the railway: • Direct jobs: At least 60 new jobs per kilometre of track during construction period. • Local Industries: Large quantities of local inputs such as steel, cement, aggregates, electricity generation and electricity transmission pylons and cables, roofing materials, glass, etc. required from local industries with potential to create at least 10,000 jobs. • Service and hospitality industry: Estimated 3,000 jobs to provide foods, accommodation and leisure. • Skills development: Estimated 15,000 people to acquire skills suitable for self employment after the construction period (masons, carpenters, mechanics, electricians, etc.) • Technology transfer: Estimated 400 engineers and high technology technicians will be trained during construction and will be available for local and regional railway development. • Accidents reduction: The railway will reduce the number of heavy trucks on the road thus reducing accident incidents making the roads safer for human traffic.