KeNHA assures motorists of safety as Njoro Interchange develops cracks

Cracks that have developed at a section of the road at Njoro interchange in Nakuru. [Kipsang Joseph/Standard]

The Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) has assured motorists of their safety while using the Njoro interchange located outside Nakuru town along the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway.

In a statement, KeNHA said that speculations about the bridge were incorrect noting that the developing space was not a crack but a normal joint included in the design.

“Our attention has been drawn to Njoro Interchange and public speculation that there is a crack occasioned by the ongoing heavy rains. We wish to clarify that this is an expansion joint on the interchange, as there are with many other structures,” the agency stated.

The bridge has been a key component in the reduction of traffic snarl-up at the junction and improved safety for motorists joining the busy highway from Njoro town.

Corporate Communication Assistant Director Clara Ouko however said that they are keenly monitoring the scene and any dangers shall be communicated.

“The Authority is closely monitoring the joint should it exceed the set tolerance levels. We shall keep the road users updated at all times,” she said.

As rains continue to pound the area, motorists plying along the route raised concerns over a gap that developed across the interchange fearing that it would soon come crumbling down.

“The gap developed last week at a time it has been raining heavily. We fear that it might detach and collapse on vehicles under the interchange. KeNHA should move with speed and inspect the bridge,” said Patrick Njoroge, a matatu driver.

The motorists expressed their disappointment speculating that the company contracted in its construction had done substandard work and pocketed millions of shillings from taxpayers.

“The government should take the company to task if the bridge is indeed faulty. As road users, we need assurance on whether this gap was left behind deliberately or is a disaster in waiting,” said Charles Murage, a local distributor.

A visible gap beneath the bridge has been in existence since the completion of the interchange last year.

The gap however recently extended upwards cutting through the tarmac and became visible from the upper surface.

The increased visibility of the gap sent fear among the motorists some of whom started avoiding using lanes running above the highway.