Ethiopia-Djibouti railway poses threat to Ethiopian airlines
Ethiopia, March 26 – The Ethiopia-Djibouti railway has given the aviation sector a challenge in their operations as the new infrastructure has won the hearts of passengers, luring them slowly to their services. A number of passengers have attested to the positive elements the railway has brought their way. Drawing similarity to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Kenya, passengers are redeeming their times and said the efficiency of the railway is commendable.
The railway line is a better transport system for both commodities and persons, probably exceeding the expectations of the passengers. This has led to a shake-up in the aviation sector as now passengers prefer the railway transport to the airline in their endeavors. Despite being fast and efficient, some passengers prefer using the railway transport as it is time effective. Airplanes would have to make either connections or unnecessary stops that would be inconvenient to the passengers.
The change of schedules could be a playing factor that at times delay the passengers. Business women have commented on the transport system as an advantageous way to carry out business. This gives a glimpse of hope to the railway system and some cheer to the operations as well.
In terms of fare, the fair prices have been a fundamental factor in luring more passengers to board the luxurious transport system. While the airline could cost $130 from Addis to Dire Dawa, the railway fare only cost $25, a massive difference.
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Passengers have asked the authority to connect other East African countries for easy trade and travel as well. The country’s modernization process can only be elevated by the improvement of the system to other parts of the country.
A number of trading activities have taken part courtesy of the system and more is expected to come out of it.
