Panic as Nairobi–Mombasa Freight Train Catches Fire

A Kenya Railways freight train travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa caught fire near Masimba in Makueni County on Wednesday evening, prompting an emergency response and disrupting operations along the railway line.

Witnesses said the fire began in the locomotive before spreading to several cargo wagons. Videos shared online showed thick black smoke rising from the train as residents gathered nearby. 

Emergency responders had not reached the scene when the footage was recorded, although local people attempted to assist. Authorities later deployed emergency teams to contain the fire and secure the affected section of track. 

The cause of the blaze has not been established, and officials said there were no immediate reports of injuries. Freight trains usually operate with a crew of three consisting of a driver, an assistant and a conductor, and authorities are working to confirm that all crew members are safe.

The train was travelling on the older metre-gauge railway line. The incident has renewed attention on the condition of parts of the network. Masimba also has a Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) passing station, about 145 kilometres from Nairobi, which is expected to provide the nearest access point for emergency crews.

The fire is expected to affect both freight and passenger services along the Nairobi–Mombasa rail corridor. Kenya Railways is likely to carry out safety inspections and recovery work before normal operations resume, which could result in delays, cancellations and revised schedules. 

Increased demand for road transport may also place additional pressure on the Nairobi–Emali–Mtito Andei–Mombasa highway as some travellers choose alternative routes. The disruption is also expected to slow the movement of freight between the Port of Mombasa and inland destinations, affecting cargo deliveries and regional trade until rail services are restored. 

Businesses that depend on regular rail freight could experience delays to their supply chains.