With an estimated population of 5.3 million, Nairobi County has gained the title of the most congested city in Kenya.
Many Nairobians own cars and trucks, not to mention public transport vehicles that all cause traffic snurl-up on major roads across the capital city.
As a result, the county loses billions of shillings anytime commuters are stuck in traffic for several hours.
The county government has made efforts to ease the traffic congestion, but the change is very minimal as commuters still get stuck in traffic jams across the city roads.
As such, commuters are forced to devise ways to beat the Nairobi traffic jam as they navigate to and from their workplaces. But did you know that there are ways you can beat traffic?
Also Read: KENHA Announces Traffic Disruption in Nairobi
Tips to Beat Traffic Jam
Start Early – Early risers barely get stuck in traffic in the capital city.
To beat the morning traffic Jam, get to your bus stop between 5am to 6.30 depending on your location and where you are headed. Most of the traffic jams begin from 7am through to 9am in the morning.
Take Alternative Routes if you own a car – with the knowledge of alternative routes to your destination, you will be able to beat traffic, especially during rush hours.
The government has constructed bypasses to help curb traffic congestion in the city, so you may as well take advantage and use them. For example, if you are from Mlolongo, you can use Outer Ring Road to connect to the Thika Superhighway instead of going through the Central Business – CBD.
Monitor Track Traffic Alerts – To beat the hectic city traffic jam, make use of traffic alerts. You can monitor traffic through social media or even listen to the radio as most morning show hosts give traffic updates.
These alerts will enable you pick the best and fastest route to your destination void of traffic jam.
Avoid Rush Hours if you can – If you do not have an urgent or fixed timeline to your destination, consider rescheduling your travelling time against rush hours.
For instance, leave town past 7pm when traffic has died down or as early as 2pm when most people are still at work.
Consider Relocating – If you are always stuck in traffic when going to work, you may consider relocating to estates near your workplace.
Also Read: 299 Families in Nairobi Get Vacation Notice to Pave Way for Ruto Project
Relocating will not only help you beat traffic but will also ensure you get home early and wake up later than when you live far from your workplace.
Take the Train – If you live near the train terminus, you may opt for train transport other than ‘matatu’s’ as they don’t have traffic and they keep time.
As a result, you will get to your destination on time and spend less as compared to using matatus.
Consider Walking – Those who stay closer to their workplaces may consider walking to or from work to beat traffic jam.
As a result, you get to exercise and keep fit.
