By Lauryne Akoth
The Kenya Red Cross has mobilized a response team to aid in the rescue efforts for 51 passengers left stranded overnight after floodwaters swept away a bus traveling from Garissa to Nairobi on Monday.
“Kenya Red Cross first responders in collaboration with community members are currently engaged in a challenging rescue operation to save the lives of several people stranded aboard a bus that has been marooned by raging waters at Arer near Tulla village, Tana River County.” Confirmed Red Cross.
The Kenya Red Cross dispatched two rescue boats to assist in the rescue mission. According to reports, the 51 passengers spent the morning in submerged water after the bus got trapped at Arer around 2:oo a.m.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has since issued a warning to motorists along the Nairobi- Garissa Road (A3) at Mororo area between Madogo and Tana River Bridge.
According to KeNHA, there was massive flooding in Arer area between Bangaley and Madogo due to heavy rains that occurred last night, leading to a rise in water levels in the entire stretch.
“The flooding at Arer has compromised the road and diversion that was previously in use. This poses a high safety risk to the road users. This road, therefore, shall remain closed until the flood waters subside and the damaged section is reinstated.” Stated KeNHA.
