Mali Transportation Lines

Mali has 593 km of railways which puts its worldwide ranking for total route length at 106. This is the best form of transportation to get between the cities of Kayes, Bamako, and Koulikoro and also passes through such regional centers as Kati, Kita, and Bafoulabe. Because of economic issues and a lack of upkeep, trains are rarely on time and often in poor condition. A project was proposed in 2012 to update and replace the existing railway tracks between the Malian capital of Bamako and neighboring Senagal. There was a policy in Mali for many years to not build a road between Bamako and Kayes based on the concern that it would compete with the railway. Before the construction of a road, daily trains were not just overcrowded but also overworked. Since the construction and improvement of roads in the area railway conditions have also improved. While there are still passenger trains that run between Kayes and Bamako, the tracks are mostly used for freight transportation. All trains in Mali have a first and second class section but both are in rather poor condition. Seats are reserved in first class and there is slightly more room for travelers. Seats in second class are picked on a first come, first served basis even though tickets are labeled with seat numbers. Most trains do not offer meals services nor have a restaurant for passengers. Vendors are at stops and offer travelers food and drink options. With the rush of travelers to get on and off their respective trains theft is a significant problem at train stations.