KeNHA Issues Advisory on State of Athi River Bridge

Ezra Manyibe | 1 week ago
Section of the flooded Kitengela Bridge along the Athi River - Namanga Road. |Photo| Courtesy|

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has cautioned members of the public against using the old Athi River bridge.

In a notice circulated on Friday, April 26, 2024, KeNHA stated that the ongoing heavy rainfall had caused flooding along the bridge.

The state agency announced that approaches to the Bridge had been severely damaged and are at risk of collapsing, posing significant hazards to both pedestrians and motorists.

"The Authority strongly advises against using this Bridge for safety. Instead, all road users should use the New Carriageway Bridge adjacent to the Old Bridge. KeNHA appeals to all motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution when navigating through the area. 

"Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe on the roads during this rainy season. Your safety is our utmost priority," the notice read in part.

Residents of Athi River are experiencing the rage of the flash floods to full effect. Earlier on Friday morning, April 26, motorists plying the Athi River - Machakos Road near Green Park estate were asked to exercise caution after the embankment slopes eroded, posing risks to the service road.

On Wednesday, April 24, storm water overtopped the Kitengela Bridge along the Athi River - Namanga Road, paralysing transport and movement for hours. KeNHA advised motorists to take an alternate route by diverting through the East African Portland Cement junction via Athi River to Devki.

The section of Mombasa Road, between Athi River Interchange and Sabaki on the route to Nairobi was also impassable on that particular day.

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