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The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has responded decisively to a request from residents of Gongolamboto in Ilala District, Dar es Salaam, following community concerns about flooding caused by infrastructure related to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project.
On April 14, 2025, the Gongolamboto Street Government sent an official letter to TRC requesting TSh 8,915,000 for the rehabilitation of a damaged stretch of road and the unblocking of a stormwater drainage channel.
The blockage, reportedly caused by water seeping from a manhole installed during the SGR construction, had led to water flowing into residents’ homes, causing disruption and distress.
According to the letter, the flooding had become a serious hazard, especially for children and the elderly, as stagnant water lingered in residential compounds due to poor drainage.
“We were really struggling. Water from the SGR drainage was entering our homes, and there was nowhere for it to go because the trench was blocked,” said Fatuma Said, a long-time resident of the area. “We are thankful that TRC listened.”
In a prompt response, TRC dispatched a technical team to assess the damage and initiate immediate repairs.
The works involved clearing the blocked drainage and restoring the affected road section, allowing rainwater to flow freely away from residential homes.
A TRC official at the site said the agency remains committed to minimizing the negative impacts of its infrastructure projects on communities.
“We value community voices and are always ready to act when genuine concerns are raised. The safety and well-being of residents around our projects are just as important to us as the railway itself,” the official noted.
Local leaders praised TRC’s responsiveness, saying it demonstrates a model of good collaboration between government institutions and the people.
“This is what we call people-centered development,” said Anna Mwakalinga, chairperson of the Gongolamboto Street Government. “TRC didn’t just acknowledge our letter; they came to the ground, saw the situation, and acted. That means a lot to this community.”
Community members expressed both relief and renewed confidence in the ability of government institutions to listen and respond to local needs.
“We had almost given up hope, but this has restored our trust,” said Mohamed Ramadhani, a youth leader in the neighborhood.
As Tanzania’s railway network continues to expand, the experience in Gongolamboto serves as a reminder of the importance of engaging with local communities and resolving challenges together.