By Lauryne Akoth
The Kenya National Highways Authority has issued an advisory to motorists in flood-stricken areas around Nairobi.
Following the torrential rains last night and a better part of the morning, several rivers have burst their banks causing floods in different parts of the country.
KeNHA noted that River Athi burst its banks this morning rendering several roads impassible. Additionally, KeNHA cautioned of traffic disruption on various roads due to floods.
“KeNHA advises motorists of a significant traffic disruption resulting from ongoing rains. Athi River flooded early this morning and the bridge linking Kitengela to Mombasa Road along Namanga Road is impassible,” said KeNHA.
Drivers were advised against attempting to cross the bridge until water levels returned to safe levels. Those utilizing the bridge connecting Kitengela to Mombasa Road via Namanga Road were encouraged to seek alternative routes to prevent potential disasters.
“Motorists are strongly urged to refrain from attempting to cross the bridge until the water levels recede to safe levels. The Authority advises motorists to take an alternate route by diverting through the East African Portland Cement junction via the Athi River to Devki. Your safety is our priority, please plan your journey accordingly,” noted KeNHA.
KeNHA also issued a severe traffic disruption advisory for the Oltepesi – Magadi Road. “The road section has flooded rendering it impassable. Motorists are urged to either avoid this route altogether or exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable,” the authority stated.
Drivers have also been put on alert following traffic disruption along the Thika Superhighway caused by floods.
Affected areas include the Juja underpass, where a traffic snarl-up begins at Juja Mall, both on the highway and service lane. KeNHA has recommended motorists use the service lane at Exit 14 and 15 until the water subsides.
The Authority has resolved to open a guard rail with a backhoe as a temporary measure to ease flooding water and restore traffic to normalcy at the Juja underpass.
Githurai Car Wash service lane, Thika bound section, and Kahawa Sukari Engen towards KU main highway were equally affected but are currently passable.
Drivers have however been advised to be cautious in these and other sections that may experience occasional flooding.