Ministry of Transport and Public Works says it will step up railway safety awareness in September as train services resume operations in different areas.
The ministry’s spokesperson Chikondi Chimala said the campaign will use different media platforms to educate communities about railway safety while village heads will also help spread the message during community gatherings.
He urged people to avoid conducting businesses on railway lines and to look both ways before crossing them.
Chimala also warned people who built houses or established businesses near railway lines that the ministry will enforce relevant rules and may demolish such structures without compensation.
“People involved in train accidents will not receive compensation and communities are encouraged to observe railway safety requirements,” he said.
Chimala noted that railway transport can benefit communities by providing a cheap means of transporting goods.
Area 50 resident, Philip Selema, said the return of train services after several years may pose a safety challenge to some residents who are unfamiliar with trains operating in their area.
“I welcome the planned awareness campaign because it will help people understand the dangers associated with activities along railway lines and failing to observe safety measures,” he said.
