The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) have closed several roads due to the ongoing heavy rains, resulting in floods in different parts of the country.
KeNHA announced closure of the Kedong Ranch – Suswa Road after the rains caused heavy debris and siltation for over two kilometre stretch of the road.
The Authority closed the section for the next 12 hours to facilitate smooth clearing operations.
“The Authority staff have been working tirelessly to clear the section. However, the continuous heavy rainfall has resulted in significant deposits of fresh silt and debris, rendering the road impassable,” KeNHA said.
Motorists are advised to utilize alternative routes, specifically the Narok – Mau Narok – Nakuru (B18) Road and the Kaplong – Kericho – Mau Summit – Nakuru Road.
Thika Superhighway Floods
KeNHA also informed the public of a temporary closure of the Thika Superhighway, at the Kahawa Sukari drift between Kahawa Barracks and Kenyatta University, for Thika Bound traffic.
This follows flooding of the drift due to an overnight heavy downpour.
Motorists heading to Thika are directed to use Kiambu Road and turn off to the Northern Bypass to Ruiru and vice versa.
“We will continue to monitor the water levels and advise when the water subsides,” the Authority said.
Also Read: KeNHA Closes Section of Thika Superhighway, Gives Alternative Route
Athi River-Namanga Road
Additionally, KeNHA closed the Athi River – Namanga Road (A2) at Kimalat area.
This was as a result of flooding occasioned by an overnight heavy downpour that led River Kimalat to burst its banks.
The Authority explained that other alternative routes through earth roads were equally flooded.
KeNHA has informed all motorists plying the Road that water has subsided, and the road is now open.
However, the Authority appeals road users to approach Kimalat section of the highway with caution even though traffic flow has been restored.
Also Read: We Are Dying – Kitengela Woman Screams for Help as Floods Swallow Homes
KURA Closes 3 Roads
Besides, KURA announced the partial closure of three major roads in Nairobi and Kiambu following the heavy rains experienced on the night of April 30, 2024.
The affected roads include Enterprise Road, Eastern bypass and Thika bypass.
KURA said the traffic police and its technical team are on the ground to direct traffic and enhance the safety of Motorists.
“We shall keep you posted as the situation unfolds. Please drive safely and don’t attempt to cross flooded sections,” said KURA.
On April 30, KENHA announced the closure of Oletepesi – Magadi (B19) Road after the occurrence of flash floods in several sections of the road due to heavy downpour.
The Authority cautioned road users against any attempts to use sections of the closed road in the interest of their safety.
KeNHA further said it remains committed to ensure seamless connectivity to facilitate safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity.