By JUDITH NAMUTOWE  –
THE construction of the US$2.3 billion Chipata-Petauke-Serenje railway line which is expected to create more than 8,000 jobs, will commence mid 2017.
Transport and Communication Minister Brian Mushimba said the project was expected to be completed in four years once it commences.
Last month, Government signed a $2.3 billion contract with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation for the construction of a 388.8-kilometre railway line from Chipata through Petauke in Eastern Province to Serenje in Central Province.
The contract to construct the 388 kilometres of railway has been signed with the China Railway Construction Corporation Limited.
Mr Mushimba said the railway line will promote local and international trade once completed.
“This project is meant to enhance regional and international trade through the Nacala Development Corridor with a direct economic stimulus in Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique,” he said.
The railway line would link Zambia main railway with the Malawian line through Chipata Mchinji railway.
The minister said once the Chipata-Petauke-Serenje railway line was done, it would provide the shortest route of 1,500 km to the sea from Kapiri Mposhi.
“The railway line would be of modern standard gauge faster and more efficient and will support business ably once completed,” Mr Mushimba said.
He said Government’s thrust was to open up Zambia with all modes of transport considering that investment was taking place in all the transport sub sectors.